Windows Key stopped working after installing Fences (now uninstalled)

from Stardock Forums

Hi everyone,

 

I’ve run into a strange little problem and I’m hoping someone here has a clue.  Since installing Fences, my Windows key has completely stopped working. The Start menu itself works fine if I click it, but the Windows key no longer opens it, and shortcuts like Win+E or Win+R don’t respond at all. I’ve since uninstalled Fences, rebooted, and checked my StartX settings, but the problem remains.

 

Here’s what I’ve tried so far:

 

  • Checked the keyboard (the key still works physically on another machine).

  • Verified Gaming Mode is off on my keyboard. (Keycheron K5 Max, DE-Iso, if that is helpful in any way?) 

  • Looked in the Registry (Scancode Map isn’t present).

  • Made sure no group policy is set to disable the Windows key.

  • Closed background tools that might intercept hotkeys.

 

At this point I’m a bit lost ... is it possible that Fences left behind a setting or registry tweak that blocks the Windows key even after uninstall? 

Any tips or ideas for what to check next would be massively appreciated.

 

Thanks in advance and greetings from Munich :) 

Bela 

Moved to Fences area

 

keyboard windows windows key key inactive stardock software fences
8,430 views 9 replies
Reply #1 from Stardock Forums Top

Have you tried restarting your computer?

CursorFX - Customize your Windows cursor
Reply #3 from Stardock Forums Top

Sorry, but you didn’t list it in things you tried.

 

Reply #4 from Stardock Forums Top

So, the Win-Key stopped responding when you installed Fences. This is unexpected behavior for Fences. I have never seen this reported before. Are you using a key-mapping software on this computer to alter any of the keys on your keyboard?

Does the on-screen keyboard Win-Key work?

Reply #5 from Stardock Forums Top

Hello,
Sorry to hear you are having issues. Would like to suggest to try purge and reinstall steps as mention here : [Link]. Just make sure to redownload the latest version from your account page. Reboot after the purge. Reinstall and reboot again after the installation. Retest and report back here.

Thank you,
Basj,
Stardock Community Assistant.

Reply #6 from Stardock Forums Top

Hi! 
Thanks for the help - so, @pelaird: I asked people that same question many times ;) ) 

I changed the "Special Keys" to media, and deactivated the Capslock, with the Keycheron Launcher (VIA QMK), but that was a year ago. And, just know, I reset everything on it, reboot, no change. 

The On-Screen Keyboard reacts to the windows key. 

i#LL TRY THE pURGE 6 REINSTALL NEXT; AND REPORT BACK .9 

Ah, dammit, here is that caps lock again ....  :P 

 

Greetings, 

Bela 

 

Reply #7 from Stardock Forums Top

What do yo mean by StartX settings?