How to Keep Num Lock on Permanently Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping the Num Lock on permanently in Windows 10 can save you the hassle of turning it on every time you start your computer. This simple guide will show you how to achieve that by changing settings in your computer’s BIOS and using the Windows Registry Editor. Let’s dive into the steps to ensure your Num Lock stays on.

How to Keep Num Lock on Permanently in Windows 10

These steps will guide you through setting your Num Lock key to stay on by default. We’ll go through both BIOS settings and Windows Registry adjustments to ensure effectiveness.

Step 1: Access BIOS Settings

Restart your computer and press the key (usually F2, F10, DEL, or ESC) to enter BIOS settings.

The BIOS key varies depending on your computer’s manufacturer. Pay attention to the initial startup screen to see which key to press. If you miss it, just restart and try again.

Step 2: Navigate to Boot Settings

In the BIOS menu, use the arrow keys to find the Boot Settings or Advanced Options.

BIOS interfaces differ across systems, but you’re typically looking for something like "Boot Configuration" or "Advanced Settings." The Num Lock setting is often under these menus.

Step 3: Enable Num Lock

Find the option for Num Lock and ensure it is set to "On" or "Enabled."

Once located, toggle the setting to make sure your Num Lock is set to stay on by default. Save and exit the BIOS to apply the change.

Step 4: Access Registry Editor

In Windows, type "regedit" in the search bar and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.

The Registry Editor is a powerful tool that allows you to make advanced changes to your system. Always be careful when making adjustments here.

Step 5: Navigate to InitialKeyboardIndicators

Go to HKEY_USERS.DEFAULTControl PanelKeyboard and find the InitialKeyboardIndicators entry.

This entry controls the initial state of your keyboard’s Num Lock feature. You’ll need to locate it to ensure Num Lock is enabled at startup.

Step 6: Modify InitialKeyboardIndicators Value

Double-click InitialKeyboardIndicators and change its value to 2.

A value of 2 indicates that Num Lock should be turned on at startup, while a value of 0 turns it off. Save the change by clicking OK.

After completing these steps, Num Lock should remain on every time you start your computer.

Tips for Keeping Num Lock On Permanently in Windows 10

• Backup First: Always back up your registry before making changes.
• Check BIOS First: Ensure your BIOS settings support Num Lock being on by default.
• Use Administrator Account: Changes to the registry should be done from an admin account.
• Double-Check BIOS Key: Different manufacturers use different keys to access BIOS; verify yours.
• Test After Changes: Restart your computer to confirm that Num Lock stays on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Num Lock turn off after every restart?

This may be due to BIOS settings or incorrect registry values. Follow the steps above to resolve this issue.

Can I permanently disable Num Lock instead?

Yes, you can set the InitialKeyboardIndicators value to 0 in the Registry Editor.

What if I can’t find the InitialKeyboardIndicators entry?

Ensure you are in the correct path within the Registry Editor. If it’s missing, you can create a new string value named InitialKeyboardIndicators.

Is changing BIOS settings safe?

Yes, as long as you follow the instructions carefully. However, improper changes can affect system functionality.

What does the value 2 in InitialKeyboardIndicators signify?

A value of 2 ensures that Num Lock is enabled by default when Windows starts.

Summary

1. Restart computer and enter BIOS settings.
2. Navigate to Boot Settings in BIOS.
3. Enable Num Lock in BIOS.
4. Open Registry Editor in Windows.
5. Go to HKEY_USERS.DEFAULTControl PanelKeyboard.
6. Set InitialKeyboardIndicators to 2.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to keep Num Lock on permanently in Windows 10, you can save yourself a bit of hassle every time you restart your computer. This guide walked you through modifying both BIOS settings and the Windows registry. Each step was designed to ensure your Num Lock key remains on, making your numeric keypad always ready for use.

Feel free to explore other registry tweaks or BIOS settings to optimize your system further. If you found this guide helpful, why not share it with friends who might be facing the same issue? Keeping Num Lock on permanently can be a small change, but it’s one that can streamline your daily computing tasks. Happy typing!