How to Fix Alt + Tab Not Working on Windows

Get the Alt-Tab app switcher shortcut working again

Co-authored by Rain Kengly Reviewed by Luigi Oppido

Last Updated: July 26, 2024 Fact Checked

Is Alt + Tab not switching between two windows anymore? This could indicate a software glitch or a hardware issue. Luckily, there are a few ways to get it working again. Here's what to do when the Alt + Tab keyboard shortcut is not working on your Windows PC.

Tips to Fix Alt Tab Keyboard Shortcut

If your Alt + Tab combination isn't working on your computer, try using the Right Alt to determine if the issue is a faulty key. You can also restart Windows Explorer in the Task Manager, disable Sticky Keys, or run the Windows Troubleshooter. Try using Win + D to show the desktop, then try again.

1

Try using the other Alt key.

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Use Alt+Tab ↹ with the other Alt key. Usually, you'll use the Alt on the left side of your keyboard. Use the Alt key on the right side of your keyboard instead.
- If Alt + Tab works with the right Alt key, you may have a broken left key. If possible, remove the key to deep clean under it, or have a professional look it over.

2

Restart Windows Explorer.

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Give the Windows Explorer process a restart. This process can be done from the Task Manager. Do the following:
- Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager.
- Locate Windows Explorer underneath the Windows processes header.
- Right-click Windows Explorer.
- Click Restart.
- Try Alt + Tab again.

3

Check Sticky Keys.

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Disable Sticky Keys. This feature allows you to use keyboard shortcuts without needing to hold down multiple keys.^{[1]
X
Research source} To check if this is on, do the following:
- Windows 10:
  - Open Settings.
  - Click Ease of Access.
  - Click Keyboard.
  - Toggle off Use Sticky Keys.
- Windows 11:
  - Open Settings.
  - Click Accessibility.
  - Click Keyboard
  - Toggle off Sticky Keys.

4

Use the Show Desktop shortcut.

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This is helpful if Alt + Tab isn't working while a game is running in full-screen mode. Once the desktop shows, you may be able to use Alt + Tab normally.

5

Refresh the screen.

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The screen may be frozen due to a software bug. Once refreshed, try using Alt + Tab again.

6

Use the Older Version.

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Use the alternative keyboard shortcut. This version of Alt + Tab will open the classic app switcher, which looks a bit different but behaves the same way.
- To do this, hold Left Alt. Press Right Alt, and then press Tab.

7

Use the Windows Troubleshooter.

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Run the Windows Troubleshooter. This troubleshooter can usually find issues on your device. To find the troubleshooter for the keyboard, do the following:
- Click the Start menu.
- Type "find and fix keyboard problems".
- Click Find and fix keyboard problems.
- Click Next.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.