How to Reprogram Keyboard Shortcuts in Windows 11

Having the option to reprogram keyboard shortcuts allows users to personalize their work experience and streamline tasks. While Windows 11 doesn’t have a native feature to remap keys, verified apps, Registry changes, and third-party programs can be utilized to suit your organization’s needs.

This article explains how to remap keyboard keys in Windows 11, important considerations before deployment, and commonly asked questions.

Windows 11 remap keys guide

Reprogram keyboard shortcuts on Windows 11 to work around broken keys, standardize commands across mixed-brand ecosystems, and improve overall accessibility.

Note: Administrator privileges are required for methods 1 and 2.

Method 1: Remap keys using Microsoft PowerToys (recommended)

PowerToys is a Microsoft app that can reprogram keyboard shortcuts on Windows 11. Its intuitive design and user-friendly GUI make Windows key remapping a breeze, making it optimal for end-users/support-led assistance.

⚠️PowerToys needs to be running for your remapped keys/shortcuts to take effect.

1. Download and install Microsoft PowerToys from the Microsoft Store.
2. Launch the PowerToys app.
3. On the left-hand side, click Keyboard Manager.
4.  Enable the Keyboard Manager.
5. Click Remap a key to replace a key’s mapped command (e.g., ‘E’ reassigned to Ctrl + C).
   • Click the + sign.
   • Under Physical Key, click Type and press the specific key you want to modify (e.g., ‘E’).
   • Click OK.
   • Under Mapped to, click Type and press the modified key’s new function (e.g., Enter, Ctrl+C, etc).
   • Click OK.
6. You may also select Remap a shortcut to change app-specific hotkeys (e.g., ‘Ctrl + V’ reassigned to Ctrl + P in Google Chrome).
   • Click the + sign.
   • Under Physical Shortcut, click Type and perform the shortcut you want to modify (e.g., Ctrl + V).
   • Click OK.
   • Under Mapped to, click Type and perform the modified hotkey’s new function (e.g., Ctrl+P).
   • Specify the app your new shortcut will apply to (e.g., chrome.exe).
   • Click OK to reprogram keyboard shortcuts.

Method 2: Use Registry Editor to remap keys in Windows 11 (advanced)

⚠️Reminder: This method to reprogram keyboard shortcuts involves Registry changes. Before you start, prepare a backup.

You can use generated scan code values to deploy system-wide keyboard changes via Registry Editor. This method is ideal for secured environments that limit functionality on all devices (e.g., Kiosks).

1. Press Win + R, type Regedit, and hit Enter.
2. When prompted by User Control Account, click Yes.
3. Use the Registry Editor’s address bar to navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Keyboard Layout
4. In the left-hand pane, right-click on the Keyboard Layout folder icon.
5. Select New > Binary Value and name the new value Scancode Map.
6. Install SharpKeys from the Microsoft Store.
   (⚠️Only download apps from legitimate sites/sources to protect your security posture.)
7. Open SharpKeys.
8. Click the Add button to start remapping.
   • In the left column, press the key you want to change (e.g., Special; Caps Lock [00_3A]).
   • In the right column, choose the modified key’s new command (e.g., App: Mail [E0_6C]).
   • Click OK.
9. After configuring your desired keys, click Write to Registry to send the binary code directly to Scancode Map.
10. Restart your computer to reprogram keyboard shortcuts.

Method 3: Use third-party tools (optional)

⚠️Only download apps from legitimate sites/sources to protect your security posture.

You may also download legitimate tools with advanced key mapping features. Here are a few Windows 11 apps that can reprogram keyboard shortcuts:

• SharpKeys: A versatile app that can create complex scan value codes for large-scale Registry changes.
• KeyTweak: An interactive layout that lets you reprogram your computer’s input with a digital keyboard GUI.
• AutoHotkey: Suitable for power users who want to create complex scripts that automate hotkeys, macros, and key shortcuts.
• Key Remapper by ATNSOFT: One-time purchase software that remaps keys, mouse buttons, and wheel actions with added per-user features.

Additional considerations for Windows key remapping

If you reprogram keyboard shortcuts in controlled environments, you may encounter unexpected changes, especially after configuring your Registry. To make sure everything proceeds smoothly, have the following things in mind:

Function (Fn) key behavior

Function keys typically can’t be remapped because their behavior is built into the hardware level. As such, any customizations must be made in the BIOS/UEFI if the OEM supports it. Manufacturer-specific tools also exist for certain brands (e.g., Lenovo Vantage, Dell Quickset).

Keep accessibility options in mind when you reprogram keyboard shortcuts

Reprogramming important modifiers (e.g., Shift, Ctrl, Caps Lock, etc.) can interfere with Ease of Access features like Sticky Keys, Filter Keys, and the On-Screen Keyboard. Be mindful of how these changes interact to maintain consistency.

Leverage Group Policy/MDM for managed remapping

For consistent rollouts, combine Group Policy and powerful Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools to enforce strict keyboard behavior across your network. This setup benefits kiosk environments, labs, and shared workstations the most.

Implement changes with roaming profiles

Registry keyboard changes apply to the specific device, not the user. To reprogram keyboard shortcuts whenever a client logs into a company device, deploy AutoHotkey scripts on their user profiles. PowerToys is a viable tool for this task.

Reprogram keyboard shortcuts for customized efficiency

Reprogramming keys and shortcuts on Windows 11 is possible with the PowerToys tool, Registry changes, and various third-party apps that allow end-users to personalize their work tools to optimize their tasks.

Remapping keys is a relatively simple process that requires almost no overhead. Moreover, the intuitiveness of certain tools can help reduce support demand, leaving more time for projects that can drive growth in your organization.