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.

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How to Fix Alt + Tab Not Working on Windows

Tips to Fix Alt Tab Keyboard Shortcut

Steps

Try using the other Alt key.

Restart Windows Explorer.

Check Sticky Keys.

Use the Show Desktop shortcut.

Refresh the screen.

Use the Older Version.

Use the Windows Troubleshooter.

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