Windows 11 · Windows
Change the keyboard layout in Windows 11
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
Add the required keyboard under Language options, then switch layouts from the taskbar input indicator or with Windows + Space.
Check the required keyboard layout before changing anything
Identify the exact device, app, account, error, and affected feature for the required keyboard layout. Keep the current result visible or record it first, so the page's later actions can be tested against one clear starting point.
Use the supported controls for the required keyboard layout
Follow the specific control path in the next steps and change only the setting or component that matches the observed problem. Do not combine resets, driver changes, account changes, or third-party tools before checking the documented route.
Open Language settings
Open Settings > Time & language > Language & region.
Add the layout
Select the language > Language options > Add a keyboard, then choose the required layout.
Switch layouts
Select the input-language indicator on the taskbar or press Windows + Space.
Remove an unwanted layout
Return to Language options, select the unwanted keyboard, and choose Remove. Keep at least one usable layout for sign-in.
Verify the result for the required keyboard layout
The input indicator and a representative text test produce the expected characters after sign-out or restart. Repeat the original task once after reopening the relevant app or settings page, so a temporary screen refresh is not mistaken for a completed result.
Narrow down problems with the required keyboard layout
If the layout switches unexpectedly, the sign-in screen differs, a hardware key is remapped, or an application uses its own input setting, stop broad resets and return to the last known state. Capture the exact error, versions, hardware or account scope, and failed step before using the linked official support channel.
Video walkthrough
If it does not work
- If the required keyboard layout is unchanged after the documented check, return to the first observed condition and identify whether it affects one app, account, device, or every task before repeating steps.
- If the labels differ after an update or the device is managed, retain the exact condition and use the linked owner source before removing data, resetting Windows, or installing an unrelated tool.
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.