Alt Tab Not Working on Windows 11? Here’s How to Fix It

Is your Alt + Tab functionality failing on Windows 11? This issue, while frustrating, is often easily resolved. This comprehensive guide walks you through various troubleshooting steps to restore Alt + Tab functionality, allowing you to quickly switch between open windows.

Understanding the Alt + Tab Function

Alt + Tab is a crucial keyboard shortcut in Windows that allows you to cycle through open windows. Pressing Alt + Tab displays a window switcher, showing thumbnails of all running applications. Holding Alt and repeatedly pressing Tab allows you to select the desired window before releasing Alt.

When Alt + Tab stops working, it significantly impacts your productivity. Let’s explore the common causes and their solutions.

Common Causes of Alt + Tab Issues

Several factors can cause Alt + Tab to malfunction, including:

  • Software Conflicts: Recently installed applications or updates might interfere with system processes.
  • Keyboard Issues: A faulty keyboard or a stuck Alt key can prevent the shortcut from working correctly.
  • Corrupted System Files: Damaged system files can disrupt Windows functionalities.
  • Graphics Driver Problems: Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can cause display issues, affecting the Alt + Tab switcher.
  • Windows Explorer (File Explorer) Issues: Since Alt + Tab relies on Explorer, any problem with Explorer can cause problems.
  • Incorrect Registry Settings: Changes to the Windows Registry can sometimes disable or alter the behavior of Alt + Tab.

Troubleshooting Steps

Here are several methods to troubleshoot and fix Alt + Tab when it’s not working on Windows 11:

1. Restart Windows Explorer

Restarting Windows Explorer can resolve temporary glitches. Here’s how:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. In the Processes tab, locate Windows Explorer.
  3. Right-click on Windows Explorer and select Restart.

This will restart the Explorer process and, hopefully, restore Alt + Tab functionality.

2. Check Your Keyboard

Ensure that your keyboard is functioning correctly. Try the following:

  • Test the Alt Key: Open a text editor (like Notepad) and press each Alt key individually. See if they register the Alt input.
  • Try a Different Keyboard: If possible, connect another keyboard to your computer and test if Alt + Tab works with the new keyboard. If it does, the problem is with your original keyboard.
  • Clean Your Keyboard: Dust and debris can sometimes cause keys to stick or malfunction. Clean your keyboard thoroughly.

3. Run the System File Checker (SFC)

System File Checker (SFC) scans for and repairs corrupted system files. To run SFC:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator. Search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. It may take some time. If any errors are found, SFC will attempt to fix them. Restart your computer after the scan.

4. Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can cause display issues. To update them:

  1. Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Display adapters.
  3. Right-click on your graphics card and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow the on-screen instructions.

Alternatively, you can download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).

5. Check for Conflicting Applications

Certain applications might interfere with Alt + Tab functionality. Try closing recently installed or running applications one by one to see if Alt + Tab starts working. Virtual machine software or screen recording tools are often culprits.

6. Disable Tablet Mode

In some cases, Tablet Mode can interfere with Alt + Tab. To disable it:

  1. Open Settings (Windows key + I).
  2. Click on System.
  3. Click on Tablet.
  4. Under When I sign in, select Never use tablet mode.

7. Modify Registry Settings (Caution Advised)

Warning: Incorrectly modifying the registry can cause serious problems. Back up the registry before making any changes.

  1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to the following key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer
  4. Look for a value named AltTabSettings. If it doesn’t exist, right-click in the right pane, select New -> DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it AltTabSettings.
  5. Double-click on AltTabSettings and set its value to 1.
  6. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer.

8. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, which can help identify if a background program is causing the issue.

  1. Press Windows key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services.
  4. Click Disable all.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
  8. Restart your computer.

If Alt + Tab works after a clean boot, re-enable services and startup programs one by one to identify the culprit.

9. Update Windows

Ensure your Windows 11 is up-to-date. Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates.

Conclusion

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of Alt + Tab not working on Windows 11. Remember to proceed with caution when modifying registry settings, and always back up your system before making significant changes. If the problem persists, consider seeking further assistance from Microsoft support or a qualified IT professional.