How to Install Input Language Keyboard in Windows 11

This guide shows you how to add a new keyboard language to your computer. Adding a new keyboard lets you type in different languages. It also changes how your computer shows text in apps and websites.

Why Install a Language Keyboard?

Why do this? You may need to type in a different language for work, school, or personal communication. Adding a specific keyboard layout ensures you have access to the correct characters, symbols, and punctuation marks for that language.

What happens when done? You will be able to toggle between different keyboard layouts using simple shortcuts or the taskbar, making it easy to write in multiple languages on the same machine without changing your entire system settings.

How to Install Language Keyboard in Windows 11

Follow these steps to add a new input method to your system. Note: You do not need administrative privileges for this task unless your organization has restricted language settings.

1. Open your computer settings by pressing Windows key + I or by clicking Start, then Settings.
2. In the Settings menu, click on Time & language.
3. Select the Language & region tile.

   

4. Look for your preferred language in the list. Click the three dots (…) next to it and select Language options.

   

5. Scroll down to the Keyboards section. Click the Add a keyboard button.

   

6. Choose the keyboard layout you want from the list to install it.

   

Once you install a language, the default keyboard for that language is usually added automatically. You can verify your new setup under the keyboard section for your preferred language.

How to Switch Between Keyboards

Once you have multiple layouts installed, you can switch between them easily:

• Keyboard Shortcut: Press and hold the Windows key and tap the Spacebar to cycle through your installed input methods.
• Taskbar Icon: Click the language abbreviation (e.g., ENG or FRA) on the right side of your taskbar to select a different keyboard.

  

Display Language vs. Input Language

It is important to understand the difference. Your Display Language controls the language used in Windows menus, buttons, and settings. Your Input Language (or keyboard layout) only controls the characters that appear when you type. You can keep your computer in English while using a Spanish or Japanese keyboard layout for typing.

How to Remove a Keyboard Layout

If you no longer need a specific layout, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Time & language > Language & region.
2. Click the three dots (…) next to the language.
3. Select Language options.
4. Find the keyboard under the Keyboards section.
5. Click the three dots (…) next to the keyboard and select Remove.

Summary

Adding a new keyboard layout allows you to type in different languages efficiently. You can manage these settings easily through the Windows Settings menu. Once installed, you can toggle between your keyboards using a simple shortcut or the taskbar menu, giving you full control over your typing experience. Remember that you can have different languages for your display and your keyboard to suit your specific workflow needs.