Why can’t I type after Windows 10 launches?

QI have a laptop that’s worked fine for several years, originally with Windows 7 and more recently with Windows 10. Up until a few days ago everything had been fine, but now the keyboard won’t work after I’ve logged into Windows! What I mean is that I can type my password on the login screen but as soon as Windows actually opens for use that’s it — no more keyboard input accepted! The mouse still works and because of Cortana I’m just about able to use my PC, but controlling it by voice and mouse alone is driving me nuts. Do you have any idea what might have caused this, and how to fix it? Rhys Dale

AWindows has an accessibility feature called Filter Keys that, when enabled, can be set to ignore certain types of key press. It will, for example, discard taps considered too quick or too slow. The idea is to help those with mobility problems avoid accidental input. However, these same features can cause problems, and can even clash with some keyboard drivers to effectively prevent input unless you type in a very specific manner. That’s almost certainly what’s happening here, as Filter Keys is activated only after Windows launches – which is why you can type before it does.

Filter Keys can be enabled by holding down the right-hand Shift key for a few seconds, which is something you might’ve done accidentally. To disable it, click Start followed by the Settings cog, and then ‘Ease of Access’ followed by Keyboard. Now scroll down to the Filter Keys section and flip to Off the switch labelled ‘Ignore or slow down brief or repeated keystrokes and adjust keyboard repeat rate’ (see screenshot).