You must have noticed that while playing games, the W, A, S, and D can be used for the same function as the four arrow keys. The reason such functionality is allowed in the first place is that it makes movement in games and certain applications easier with the left hand.
However, many users have reported that while using their system normally, the WASD and arrow keys are switched. This post will show you how you can change WASD to Arrow keys if they have been switched on a Windows PC.
WASD and arrow keys are switched
The possible causes of the problem could be as follows:
- A gaming application (or any other application) that uses the WASD keys could have changed the same.
- Some malware might have caused the issue.
- The keyboard doesn’t support USB 3.0.
- The alternate keys system might be enabled.
Try restarting the system and check if it helps. If not, try the following solutions sequentially to resolve the problem:
- Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter
- Uninstall any program that causes alternation of the keys
- Update the keyboard drivers
- Check if your keyboard has a special function that alternates the keys.
1] Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter
Before proceeding to more complex troubleshooting, it would be a wise idea to run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter. The procedure to do so is as follows:
Go to Start > Settings > Updates and Security > Troubleshoot. Select the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter.
Read: The ” and @ keys keep swapping on Windows
2] Uninstall any program that causes alternation of the keys
If you know of a gaming program or any other application that causes alternation of the keys, uninstall it, at least temporarily.
To uninstall a program, press Win + R to open the Run window and type the command appwiz.cpl. Press Enter to open the Programs and Features window.
Right-click on the potentially troublesome program and select Uninstall.
3] Update the keyboard drivers
Updating the keyboard drivers could be a helpful solution, especially if you are using an external keyboard.
Press Win + R to open the Run window and type the command devmgmt.msc. Press Enter to open the Device Manager.
Expand the list of the Keyboard drivers and right-click on your driver.
Select Update driver.
4] Check if your keyboard has a special function which alternates the keys
Users have reported that the keys got alternated when they press Fn + Windows key. This was a special function of the keyboard. You could press the same keys again to reverse the wrongdoings.
I hope something helps!
Related read: Spacebar or Enter key is not working.
