Windows 11 offers users the flexibility to customize their keyboard layouts beyond the traditional QWERTY format. Whether you prefer DVORAK, AZERTY, or another layout, Windows makes it easy to add and switch between different keyboard layouts. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:

How to Add and Change Keyboard Layouts in Windows 11

Adding a Keyboard Layout in Windows 11:

Windows 11 comes with multiple keyboard layouts already installed for your preferred language. Follow these steps to add additional layouts:

Press Win + I to open Settings, then navigate to Time & language > Language & Region.
Click on the three-dot icon next to your preferred language (the one on top) and select Language Options.
In the Keyboards section, click Add a Keyboard, then choose a different keyboard layout from the available options.

If you want more keyboard layouts, you can add a new language, but this requires an internet connection for downloading. Here’s how:

On the Language & Region page in Settings, click Add a Language.
Select the language you want to install from the pop-up and click Next.
Click on ‘Install’ for Windows 11 to initiate the download and installation process for the new language.
Follow steps #2 and #3 above to add a new keyboard layout to the installed language.

If none of the available keyboard layouts meet your needs, you can consider creating a custom keyboard layout.

Changing a Keyboard Layout in Windows 11:

To switch between keyboard layouts in Windows 11, you have a couple of options:

Click on the language switcher in the system tray section and select a different layout from there.
Alternatively, press and hold the Win key and keep pressing the Space bar to cycle through different keyboard layouts. You can also achieve the same result by holding down Shift and pressing Alt.

Removing a Keyboard Layout in Windows 11:

If you no longer need a specific keyboard layout, you can easily remove it:

Press Win + I to open Settings, then go to Time & language > Language & Region.

“Click on the three-dot icon adjacent to the keyboard layout you wish to remove, then choose ‘Language Options’.”

In the Keyboards section, click the three-dot icon next to the keyboard layout you want to remove and select Remove.

You can also remove an entire language if it’s no longer necessary:

Navigate back to Language & Region in Settings.
Click on the ellipsis icon located beside the language you wish to delete, then select ‘Remove’.

The language and its associated keyboard layout will be removed from your computer.

FAQs: (Frequently asked Questions)

Can I create a custom keyboard layout in Windows 11?
Yes, you can create a custom keyboard layout in Windows 11 using third-party tools or software designed for this purpose. However, the process may require technical knowledge and expertise.
Are there any limitations to the number of keyboard layouts I can add?
Windows 11 does not impose a strict limit on the number of keyboard layouts you can add. You can add as many keyboard layouts as you need to accommodate different languages or preferences.
Can I use different keyboard layouts for different applications?
No, Windows 11 does not have built-in functionality to use different keyboard layouts for different applications. Keyboard layouts are system-wide settings and apply uniformly across all applications.
Is it possible to set a default keyboard layout for my user account?
Yes, you can set a default keyboard layout for your user account in Windows 11. Go to Settings > Time & language > Language & Region, select your preferred language, click on “Options,” then under “Keyboards,” choose the layout you want as the default.
Does changing the keyboard layout affect keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11?
Yes, changing the keyboard layout may affect keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11, as the key mappings can differ between layouts. You may need to adjust your shortcuts accordingly when switching between layouts.
Can I add a keyboard layout for a language that is not listed in Windows 11?
While Windows 11 includes a wide range of language options, you may be able to add additional keyboard layouts for languages not listed by using third-party tools or software designed for customizing keyboard layouts.
What should I do if a newly added keyboard layout doesn’t work properly?
If a newly added keyboard layout doesn’t work properly, try reinstalling the layout or updating the keyboard driver. You can also check for any compatibility issues with the specific layout or consult online forums for troubleshooting advice.
Are there any compatibility concerns when using non-standard keyboard layouts in Windows 11?
There may be compatibility concerns when using non-standard keyboard layouts in Windows 11, especially with certain applications or games that expect specific key mappings. It’s essential to test the layout thoroughly to ensure compatibility with your workflow.
Can I synchronize keyboard layouts across multiple devices running Windows 11?
Windows 11 does not offer built-in synchronization of keyboard layouts across multiple devices. However, you can manually configure the same keyboard layouts on each device to maintain consistency across your devices.