Alt+Tab Not Working on Windows 10: 9 Best Fixes

The Alt+Tab shortcut is a useful feature in Windows 10 that allows users to seamlessly switch between open applications. However, when this shortcut stops working, it can significantly hinder productivity. If you are facing this problem, don’t worry: there are several ways to solve the problem.

We’ll learn the best solutions to get your Alt+Tab functionality back in action.

Common reasons why Alt+Tab stops working

Understanding the cause of the problem will help you implement the most effective solution. Here are some common reasons why Alt+Tab may stop working:

• Keyboard issues: A defective keyboard or stuck keys can prevent the shortcut from working.
• Errors in Windows Explorer: Errors in Windows Explorer can disrupt the keyboard shortcuts.
• Conflicting background applications: Certain apps can override or block Alt+Tab functionality.
• Outdated drivers or Windows updates: Missing updates can lead to software conflicts.

Keeping these causes in mind, let’s take a look at the best solutions to fix the Alt+Tab problem.

How to fix Alt+Tab not working on Windows 10

Check your keyboard for problems

Make sure your keyboard is functioning properly before diving into software fixes.

1. Test the Alt And Tab keys individually to confirm they work.
2. If you are using a wireless keyboard, check the batteries or connection.
3. Try connecting the keyboard to a different USB port or test it on another computer.

If the keys become unresponsive, consider replacing or repairing your keyboard.

Restart Windows Explorer

Windows Explorer manages the desktop environment; restart it can solve temporary problems.

1. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Locate Windows Explorer under the Processes tab.
3. Right click on it and select Reboot.

This refreshes the system and often restores Alt+Tab functionality.

Adjust the multitasking settings

Incorrect multitasking settings in Windows 10 can disrupt Alt+Tab. Verifying and adjusting these settings may resolve the issue.

1. Open Institutions to use Win + me.
2. Navigate to System > Multitasking.
3. Insure the option Alt+Tab shows Windows is enabled. (3 or 5 most recent tabs)
4. Adjust other multitasking settings as necessary.

This ensures that Alt+Tab is configured correctly for switching between apps.

Update your keyboard drivers

Outdated or damaged keyboard drivers can disrupt the functionality of shortcuts. Updating the drivers ensures compatibility with your system.

1. Press Win + X and select Device management.
2. Expand Keyboards and right-click on your keyboard.
3. To elect Update driver and follow the on-screen instructions.

Restart your computer after updating the drivers to apply the changes.

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Disable conflicting applications

Some background applications, such as remote desktop tools or gaming overlays, can block Alt+Tab. Disabling these apps may solve the problem.

1. Open Task Manager using Ctrl+Shift+Esc.
2. Under the Processes tab, identify apps running in the background.
3. Right-click on conflicting apps and select End the task.

Check the Alt+Tab functionality again to confirm that the conflict has been resolved.

Run the Windows troubleshooter

Windows 10 includes a built-in troubleshooter to identify and fix hardware and shortcut problems.

How to use the troubleshooter:

1. Open Institutions and go to Update & Security > Troubleshooting.
2. Select Additional troubleshooters and choose Keyboard.
3. Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the instructions.

The tool will automatically detect and fix any keyboard-related issues.

Check for Windows updates

Outdated system files can cause Alt+Tab to not work. Keeping your Windows up to date ensures that all features function properly.

1. Open Institutions to use Win + me.
2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

After updating, restart your PC to apply the changes.

Perform a clean boot

A clean boot helps identify third-party software that is causing conflicts with Alt+Tab.

To perform a clean boot:

1. Press Win + Rtype msconfigand press Enter.
2. In the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services and click Turn everything off.
3. Go to the Startup tab, click Open Task Managerand disable all startup items.
4. Restart your computer.

If Alt+Tab works after a clean boot, re-enable the services individually to find the conflicting app.

Reset your Windows settings

If none of the above methods work, resetting Windows settings can resolve persistent issues.

1. Open Institutions and go to System > Recovery.
2. Click Reset this PC and choose Save my files.
3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the reset.

This will reset your system to default settings while preserving your files.

Conclusion

Alt+Tab is an essential feature for multitasking, and if it stops working it can hinder your productivity. By following the solutions in this guide, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem on your Windows 10 PC. Start with simple methods, such as checking your keyboard and restarting Windows Explorer, and then move on to advanced options, such as updating drivers, disabling conflicting apps, or resetting your system.

With these fixes, your Alt+Tab shortcut should work smoothly again, allowing you to switch between tasks efficiently.