How to Open and Use the On-Screen Keyboard in Windows 11

You open the On-Screen Keyboard in Windows 11 by using a keyboard shortcut or by accessing it through the Ease of Access settings.

The On-Screen Keyboard is a virtual keyboard displayed on your screen, allowing you to input text using a mouse, trackpad, or touch input if available. It acts as a digital replacement for your physical keyboard. For instance, you can quickly launch it by pressing the ⊞ Win+Ctrl+O keys simultaneously. This shortcut works even if your physical keyboard has issues.

This built-in Windows 11 utility proves invaluable when your physical keyboard malfunctions, a key gets stuck, or you need a temporary alternative for typing.

Option 1Use a Keyboard Shortcut

The quickest way to open the On-Screen Keyboard is with a keyboard shortcut. Try pressing these keys together:

⊞ Win+Ctrl+O

Option 2Open from the Sign-In Screen

What if your keyboard isn’t working before you even log into Windows? You can still open the On-Screen Keyboard from the sign-in screen.

On the Windows sign-in screen, look at the bottom-right corner. You should see an icon that looks like a circle with a person inside, or sometimes a clock. This is the Accessibility button, often marked with an icon that looks like a person or a clock.

• Click the Accessibility button.
• A menu will appear. Select “On-Screen Keyboard” from the menu.

Important: The On-Screen Keyboard will stay open until you close it. If you open it from the sign-in screen and then log in, it will likely still be there.

Option 3Find and Open the On-Screen Keyboard in Settings

Here’s how to open the virtual keyboard through Windows Settings.

1. Go to the Start Menu. Click the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Go to Settings. Click the gear icon in the Start menu. This opens the Settings window.

   Tip: You can also press the Windows key + I keys on your keyboard to open Settings directly, if they are working.

3. Choose Accessibility. In the Settings window, look for “Accessibility” in the left sidebar and click it.
4. Find Keyboard options. Scroll down on the right side until you see “Keyboard.” Click on it.
5. Turn it On! You will see a switch labeled “On-Screen Keyboard.” Click the switch to turn it “On.” The On-Screen Keyboard should appear on your screen.

That’s it! A keyboard will show up, ready for you to use. It will stay on your screen until you close it. You can use it to click around and type what you need.

Why Use the On-Screen Keyboard?

You might use the On-Screen Keyboard if your physical keyboard is broken or not working correctly. It’s also helpful if you have a disability that makes typing on a physical keyboard difficult. It’s a great way to make sure you can still use your computer.

Summary

Windows 11’s On-Screen Keyboard is a useful tool for typing when your physical keyboard isn’t available or working. You can open it quickly using a keyboard shortcut (Windows key + Control key + O), from the Accessibility icon on the sign-in screen, or by navigating through the Settings app under Accessibility > Keyboard. It provides a virtual keyboard that you can operate with your mouse, allowing you to type and use your computer even without a functional physical keyboard.