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

The On-Screen Keyboard in Windows 11 is a virtual keyboard that appears on your screen. It lets you type using your mouse, trackpad, or touch, acting as a digital replacement for your physical keyboard. You can quickly open it using the shortcut: press the Windows key, Ctrl, and O keys at the same time.

This tool is super handy if your physical keyboard stops working, a key gets stuck, or you just need a quick way to type something without your regular keyboard.

Option 1Use a Keyboard Shortcut

You can open the Windows 11 On-Screen Keyboard quickly using a keyboard shortcut.

⊞ Win+Ctrl+O

Option 2Open from the Sign-In Screen

The Windows 11 On-Screen Keyboard can be opened even before you sign in, which is very useful if your regular keyboard isn’t working.

On the Windows sign-in screen, look towards the bottom-right corner. You’ll find an icon that resembles a circle with a person inside, or sometimes a clock. This is the Accessibility button.

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

The On-Screen Keyboard remains open until you explicitly close it. If you open it from the Windows 11 sign-in screen and then log in, it will likely still be visible.

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

The Windows 11 On-Screen Keyboard can be found and opened through ⚙️ the Settings app, letting you type on your screen if you don’t have a physical keyboard.

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.

The on-screen keyboard appears on your screen and remains visible until you close the keyboard window. You can click keys on the on-screen keyboard to type text.

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 ensure you can still use your computer.

Summary

The Windows 11 On-Screen Keyboard is handy when your physical keyboard isn’t working, and you can open it using the shortcut Windows key + Control key + O.