How Do I Unlock the Space Bar on My Computer Keyboard?

Your space bar may not respond correctly if you accidentally enable Sticky Keys.

If your space bar isn't responding when you press it, or if it responds sluggishly, it's possible that you have inadvertently enabled the "Sticky Keys" or "Filter Keys" accessibility option in Windows. When these options are enabled, your keyboard response time will be dramatically slowed and may require more than one tap to register a keystroke. Fortunately, it's easy to disable these functions and return your keyboard to normal working order.

Instructions

1. Click "Start" and select "All Programs."

2. Click "Accessories" and select "Ease of Access."

3. Click "Ease of Access Center."

4. Click "Make Keyboard Easier to Use."

5. Click "Set Up Sticky Keys." Deselect the checkbox that says "Turn on Sticky Keys When Shift is Pressed Five Times." Make sure the box that says "Turn on Sticky Keys" is not checked. Click "OK" to save your changes.

6. Click "Set Up Filter Keys." Uncheck the box that says "Turn on Filter Keys." Click on the checkbox next to "Turn On Filter Keys When Right Shift Is Pressed For 8 Seconds" to deselect it. Click "OK" to save your changes.

7. Click "OK" again to save all of the keyboard accessibility changes you have made.

Tips & Warnings

• If your space bar is still unresponsive after following these steps, you may need to replace your keyboard.

Resources

• PC's Place: What Are Sticky Keys, Filter Keys, Toggle Keys?