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Last Updated on August 12, 2023 by Humera hallari
Laptops are portable and convenient devices that allow us to work from anywhere, but sometimes the built-in keyboard can be a nuisance. Whether you have a faulty keyboard or just prefer to use an external keyboard, disabling your laptop’s built-in keyboard can be a great option. There are various reasons why someone might want to disable their laptop keyboard, and this article will explore some of them. In addition, I will also help you with a complete guide on how to disable laptop keyboards temporarily and permanently in Windows 10, 11, and Mac.
Reasons to Disable Laptop Keyboard
One of the most common reasons to disable a laptop keyboard is physical damage. If some keys are not working or if the keyboard is completely unresponsive, disabling it can be a temporary solution until you can get it fixed.
Another reason could be the noise factor. While typing on a built-in keyboard, the keys make a clicking sound that can be bothersome to others around you. Disabling the keyboard can prevent this noise from disturbing others, especially if you work in a shared workspace.
When it comes to ergonomics, using an external keyboard can be a good option for some people. The built-in keyboard on a laptop is often cramped, which can lead to discomfort and even repetitive strain injuries. By disabling the built-in keyboard and connecting an external keyboard, you can adjust the height and angle of the keyboard to suit your needs, which can help to prevent pain and discomfort.
In addition, disabling the built-in keyboard can help to prevent accidental keystrokes. If you are using a wireless mouse, your hands may accidentally brush against the keyboard, causing unwanted keystrokes that can be frustrating and time-consuming to correct. Disabling the built-in keyboard can prevent this from happening and make your work experience smoother.
Disabling the Keyboard in Windows Via Device Manager
If you have a Windows operating system, disabling your Keyboard using a Device Manager is possible. Follow the steps below;
Step 1- Press Windows + R. and the Run command opens up.
Step 2- Type devmgmt.msc in the search box and press Ok.
Step 3- The device Manager settings open up on your laptop screen.
Step 4- In the device list look for the Keyboard option and click on the arrow beside it.
Step 5- Now you see various keyboard settings. Click on the Uninstall Device.
Step 6- Press the Uninstall button.
Thats all. you have successfully disabled your Windows keyboard. But this method is a Temporary method of Disabling the Laptop keyboard. When you restart your laptop it auto-enables the keyboard.
The bottom line is this method is a temporary method and not the permanent one. If you are wondering how to disable the laptop keyboard permanently then continue reading.
How to Disable laptop keyboard permanently
Using a device manager to disable the laptop keyboard is a temporary method. However, restarting or switching off the device auto-reenables the settings. There is also a permanent way to disable the laptop keyboard. Which is using a prompt command. Following this method allows you to disable the keyboard permanently.
Step 1 – Type cmd in your left corner search bar to open command settings.
Step 2 – Click on the Run as Administrator option.
Step 3 – Press yes to open the command prompt window.
Step 4 – Now type the following command
sc config i8042prt start= disabled
Step 5 – Close the command prompt window and restart the device.
Step 6 – If you wish to re-enable your keyboard then simply follow the above-mentioned steps.
but in the command prompt window type this command
sc config i8042prt start= auto
Step 7 – Then restart the device.
How to disable the laptop keyboard on Mac
Step 1 – Click on the Apple icon to open the Apple menu.
Step 2 – Click on the System Preferences option.
Step 3 – Click on the mouse and trackpad options. Put on the mouse options by selecting the check box.
Step 4 – With mouse keys enabled your keyboard keys will be disabled.
Once you have successfully disabled your inbuilt laptop keyboard it is necessary to connect it with some other external keyboard. Here are simple steps to follow in order to connect your laptop with a USB or Bluetooth keyboard.
How to connect USB keyboard to a laptop
All you need to do is plug in the USB cable in the right port. Now, let it install. Once the installation is complete you are good to go with your external keyboard.
How to connect an external Bluetooth keyboard to a laptop
Step 1 – Type Bluetooth in your left corner Search bar.
Step 2- Now open Bluetooth settings and Turn on the Laptop Bluetooth.
Step 2 – Now turn on your keyboard and make sure the pairing mode is on.
Step 4 – Click on Add Device option and look for your keyboard Bluetooth name.
Step 5 – Complete the simple steps ahead and you have successfully connected your external Bluetooth keyboard to your laptop.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several good reasons to disable a laptop keyboard. Whether it’s due to physical damage, noise, ergonomics, or accidental keystrokes, disabling the built-in keyboard can provide a solution. It’s important to note that disabling the built-in keyboard is not the same as deleting the driver. The driver can be reactivated if needed, so there’s no need to worry about permanent damage.