To enable or customize the function (Fn) keys on an HP laptop, you usually need to change a setting in the BIOS or use the HP software in Windows. The method depends on whether you want the F1-F12 keys to act as standard function keys (e.g., F5 to refresh) or as multimedia keys (e.g., F5 to lower brightness).
Many HP laptops feature a hardware-level toggle:
Use the arrow keys to navigate to the tab. Highlight Action Keys Mode and press Enter. Select your preferred setting:
How to Enable Fn Key in HP Laptop: Toggles, BIOS, and Shortcuts how to enable fn key in hp laptop
Look at your Esc key. If it has a small lock icon (often with "fn" written inside), pressing Fn + Esc simultaneously will toggle the Fn Lock.
Managing the key on an HP laptop can be confusing because its behavior varies across different models. By default, many HP laptops are set to "Action Keys Mode," meaning pressing F1 through F12 performs tasks like adjusting volume or brightness directly. If you want these keys to act as standard F1-F12 keys (for software shortcuts or gaming), you must "enable" the Fn key to either work as a modifier or lock it into a specific mode.
and immediately press the F10 key repeatedly until the BIOS menu opens. To enable or customize the function (Fn) keys
If you are still having trouble, you can use the HP Support Assistant to check for BIOS or keyboard driver updates that might restore lock functionality.
Press the and immediately tap the F10 key repeatedly until the BIOS Setup Utility opens.
Note: On some models, you may need to press first, then select F10 from the menu. Highlight Action Keys Mode and press Enter
If you enter the BIOS (Method 1) but cannot find the "Action Keys Mode" option, your BIOS version might be outdated.
Use the dropdown menu to switch between "Function key" and "Multimedia key".
If the Fn key itself does nothing (even with Fn+Esc), reinstall the or HP Hotkey Support from HP’s support website.