The Alt+Tab shortcut is a convenient way to switch between open applications in Windows. However, when alt tab not working, it can disrupt your workflow. This issue may stem from software conflicts, system settings, or keyboard malfunctions. Below, we explore the causes and provide step-by-step fixes to restore this essential function.
Part 1. Why is Alt+Tab Not Working?
If alt+tab does not work, several factors could be responsible. Understanding these causes helps in troubleshooting effectively.
Possible Causes of Alt+Tab Not Working
Keyboard Issues – A faulty keyboard or stuck keys may prevent the shortcut from registering.
Outdated or Corrupt Drivers – Keyboard drivers may be outdated or malfunctioning.
Windows Explorer Crash – If Explorer crashes, alt tab not working is a common symptom.
Third-Party Software Conflicts – Some applications, especially overlay tools (e.g., Discord, Steam), interfere with shortcuts.
Windows Settings Misconfiguration – Incorrect system settings may disable the shortcut.
Corrupt System Files – Damaged system files can disrupt keyboard shortcuts.
Full-Screen Applications – Some games and apps block Alt+Tab functionality.
Part 2. How to Fix Alt+Tab Not Working
Now that we've identified the potential causes of alt+tab not working, let's explore the solutions. The following methods range from simple quick fixes to more advanced troubleshooting steps. Start with the first method and work your way down until your Alt+Tab functionality is restored.
Method 1: Restart Windows Explorer
Windows Explorer manages the graphical interface of your system, including the Alt+Tab function. If it crashes or freezes, the shortcut may stop working. Restarting Explorer refreshes the process and often resolves the issue without requiring a full system reboot.
Steps to restart Windows Explorer:
Step 1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Step 2. Find Windows Explorer under the Processes tab.
Step 3. Right-click and select Restart.
Step 4. Try Alt+Tab again.
Method 2: Check for Keyboard Issues
A malfunctioning keyboard can prevent Alt+Tab from working correctly. This could be due to hardware damage, stuck keys, or connectivity problems (for wireless keyboards). Testing with an alternative keyboard helps determine if the issue is hardware-related.
Steps to check for keyboard issues:
Step 1. Test the Alt and Tab keys separately in a text editor.
Step 2. Try using an external keyboard to see if the problem persists.
Step 3. Clean the keyboard to remove any debris that may be blocking key presses.
Method 3: Update Keyboard Drivers
Outdated or corrupted keyboard drivers can cause Alt+Tab to malfunction. Windows relies on these drivers to interpret key inputs correctly. Updating them ensures compatibility with the latest system updates and fixes potential bugs.
Steps to update kwyboard drivers with Device Manager:
Step 1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Step 2. Expand Keyboards, right-click your keyboard, and select Update driver.
Step 3. Choose Search automatically for drivers and install updates.
Troubleshoot Driver Issues Easily
For a more reliable solution, we recommend using PCGoGo Driver Sentry, a powerful driver management tool that automatically scans, downloads, and installs the correct drivers for your system.
Steps to update keyboard drivers with PcGoGo Driver Sentry:
Step 1. Click the button below to download PcGoGo Driver Sentry.
Step 2. Click the Scan button. The tool will automatically detect outdated or missing drivers, including keyboard drivers.
Step 3. After the scan, locate Keyboard Drivers in the results list. Click "Update" next to the driver to download and install the latest version.
Step 4. Once the update is complete, restart your computer to apply the changes. Test Alt+Tab to see if the issue is resolved.
Video Tutorial
Why Use PCGoGo Driver Sentry?
✔ One-Click Updates – Simplifies driver management with automatic detection and installation.
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Method 4: Disable Conflicting Software
Some applications, particularly those with overlay features (like gaming platforms or communication tools), can interfere with keyboard shortcuts. Disabling these overlays or closing the applications entirely may restore Alt+Tab functionality.
Steps to disable conflicting software:
Step 1. Close apps like Discord, Steam, or Nvidia GeForce Experience.
Step 2. Disable overlays in their settings (e.g., in Discord, go to Settings > Overlay and toggle it off).
Step 3. Restart your PC and test Alt+Tab.
Method 5: Run System File Checker (SFC)
Corrupted or missing system files can disrupt essential Windows functions, including Alt+Tab. The System File Checker (SFC) tool scans and repairs these files, potentially fixing the issue without manual intervention.
Steps to run system file:
Step 1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Step 2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Step 3. Wait for the scan to complete and restart your PC.
Method 6: Adjust Windows Settings
Windows includes settings that control how Alt+Tab behaves. If these settings are misconfigured, the shortcut may not work as expected. Verifying and adjusting these options ensures the feature operates correctly.
Steps to adjust Windows settings:
Step 1, Press Win + I to open Settings.
Step 2. Go to System > Multitasking.
Step 3. Ensure Alt+Tab is set to Open windows only or All desktops.
Method 7: Re-register Windows Shortcuts
If Alt+Tab stops working due to a registry error, manually re-registering the shortcut can help. This method forces Windows to reset the shortcut’s configuration, often resolving the issue.
Steps to re-register Windows shortcut:
Step 1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Step 2. Run: reg add "HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer" /v AltTabSettings /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
Step 3. Restart your PC.
FAQs About Alt Tab Not Working Issue
1. How do I enable Alt-Tab?
Go to Settings > System > Multitasking and ensure Alt+Tab is enabled under Virtual Desktops.
2. How to unfreeze Alt-Tab?
Restart Windows Explorer via Task Manager or reboot your PC.
3. What can I use instead of an Alt-Tab?
Try Win + Tab (Task View) or Ctrl + Alt + Del to access the Task Manager.
Conclusion
If alt tab not working, the issue can usually be fixed by restarting Explorer, updating drivers, or disabling conflicting software. And PCGoGo Driver Sentry provides a hassle-free way to ensure all drivers are up to date, potentially fixing the issue quickly. Download and try it for free now!
