How to display on-screen keyboard in Windows 11

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The on-screen keyboard in Windows 11 is a versatile accessibility feature that can be invaluable in a variety of situations. Whether your physical keyboard has stopped responding, you are using a touchscreen device, or you simply prefer typing with visual assistance, knowing how to launch the on-screen keyboard ensures you always have a reliable way to input text. Despite being a built-in tool, it isn’t always obvious where to find it, especially for users who are new to the operating system or those encountering an unexpected hardware issue.

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This guide offers a clear, step-by-step walkthrough of several methods to open the on-screen keyboard. Each approach is suitable for different scenarios, so you can choose the one that best matches your current needs—whether you can still navigate normally, rely solely on a mouse, or need quick access through accessibility shortcuts. By understanding all available options, you can avoid frustration and always have a functional typing method at your fingertips.

Method 1

One of the most straightforward ways to open the on-screen keyboard is through the system's accessibility settings. To access it this way, open the Settings app from the Start menu, then navigate to Accessibility and select Keyboard. Here you can toggle the on-screen keyboard on or off anytime. This method is ideal for users who want a predictable, centralized location to manage input preferences or who frequently adjust accessibility tools.

Method 2

Another commonly used method involves the search bar. Simply click the search icon on the taskbar and type “on-screen keyboard.” The system will display the matching app immediately, and you can launch it with a single click. This option is quick and efficient, especially if you still have some ability to type or are comfortable navigating the search interface with the mouse.

Method 3

If your physical keyboard stops working entirely, there is a built-in shortcut that can help: the accessibility button on the lock screen. When you reach the login screen, click the Accessibility icon in the corner and select On-Screen Keyboard from the list of tools. The keyboard will appear instantly, allowing you to enter your password or PIN even without functioning hardware. This is particularly useful when you cannot access your desktop at all.

Method 4

You can also access the classic version of the on-screen keyboard through the Run dialog. Press Windows + R, type osk, and press Enter. This command launches the traditional on-screen keyboard interface that has existed for many versions of Windows. It is a helpful alternative if you prefer the legacy layout or need a command-based method.

For users who rely on the tool frequently, pinning it to the taskbar or Start menu can save time. After opening it using any of the methods above, right-click its icon and choose Pin to taskbar or Pin to Start. This provides one-click access in the future, reducing the number of steps needed and ensuring the keyboard is always available when you need it most.

Ultimately, the on-screen keyboard is an essential feature for both accessibility and convenience. Whether you're dealing with a temporary hardware failure or using a touchscreen device in tablet mode, mastering these launch methods ensures typing is always within easy reach. Windows 11 offers flexibility, and taking advantage of these options can significantly improve your workflow and troubleshooting capabilities.

By familiarizing yourself with all the methods described here, you can use the system with greater confidence and independence. Whether you prefer settings menus, quick searches, lock-screen shortcuts, or command-based access, there is no single “right” way—only the one that works best in the moment.