Blog

How to Fix Can’t Type Password Error on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

Sometimes, when you try to type your password on the Windows 10 login screen, the keyboard seems unresponsive. This can be frustrating and prevent you from accessing your computer. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to fix this issue.

The problem can happen due to various reasons such as keyboard settings, driver issues, or system glitches. By following a step-by-step approach, you can identify and resolve the cause efficiently.

In this guide, we will walk through easy-to-understand solutions designed for users of all levels. You won’t need any advanced knowledge to fix the “Can’t Type Password” error on Windows 10.

Let’s get started and get your keyboard working again so you can log in without trouble.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before You Begin

  • Ensure your keyboard is properly connected. If you use a USB keyboard, unplug it and plug it back in securely. For wireless keyboards, check the batteries and connection.
  • Try using the on-screen keyboard. Click the “Ease of Access” icon on the login screen and select “On-Screen Keyboard.” If you can type the password here, the issue is likely with your physical keyboard.
  • Restart your computer. Sometimes, a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches causing the keyboard to stop working.
  • Check if Num Lock or Caps Lock is on. Incorrect inputs may make it seem like the keyboard isn’t working.

Step 1: Use the On-Screen Keyboard to Log In

If your physical keyboard isn’t responding, the on-screen keyboard can be a helpful workaround. This tool lets you type your password using your mouse or touchscreen.

  1. At the login screen, click on the Ease of Access icon in the bottom-right corner.
  2. Select On-Screen Keyboard from the menu.
  3. Use the on-screen keyboard to enter your password and press Enter.

This step is essential because it lets you access your account even if the physical keyboard is faulty. Once logged in, you can try the solutions below to fix the keyboard permanently.

Step 2: Check Keyboard Language and Layout Settings

Sometimes, the keyboard layout changes accidentally, causing keys to produce unexpected characters or no input at all.

  1. After logging in, press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Time & Language > Language.
  3. Under Preferred languages, check that your language (e.g., English US) is set correctly.
  4. Click on your language, then select Options.
  5. Make sure the correct keyboard layout is installed (e.g., US QWERTY).
  6. If you find multiple keyboard layouts, remove the ones you don’t use to avoid confusion.

Having the wrong keyboard layout can prevent your password from being entered correctly, so verifying this setting is important.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers

Outdated or corrupted keyboard drivers can cause the keyboard to stop working at the login screen. Updating or reinstalling these drivers often solves the problem.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Keyboards section.
  3. Right-click your keyboard device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. If Windows finds a new driver, it will install it.
  5. If updating doesn’t help, right-click the keyboard device again and select Uninstall device.
  6. Restart your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall the keyboard driver.

This process is important because drivers allow Windows to communicate with your keyboard properly.

Step 4: Disable Filter Keys

Filter Keys is an accessibility feature that can sometimes interfere with keyboard input.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Navigate to Ease of Access > Keyboard.
  3. Make sure Filter Keys is turned off.
  4. If it’s on, toggle it off and try typing your password again.

Filter Keys can cause the keyboard to ignore brief or repeated keystrokes, which might be why your password isn’t registering.

Step 5: Perform a System File Check

Corrupted system files may cause unexpected errors, including keyboard issues at login. The System File Checker tool scans and repairs these files.

  1. Press Windows + X and choose Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    3. sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.
  4. If any corrupted files are found, Windows will attempt to repair them automatically.
  5. Restart your computer once the process finishes.

Running this scan helps fix underlying system problems that might be affecting your keyboard input.

Alternative Method: Use Safe Mode to Troubleshoot

If the above steps don’t work, try starting Windows in Safe Mode. Safe Mode loads only essential drivers and can help identify if third-party software is causing issues.

  1. On the login screen, click the Power icon.
  2. Hold Shift and click Restart.
  3. Windows will restart into the recovery environment. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  4. Click Restart.
  5. After reboot, press 4 to boot into Safe Mode.
  6. Try typing your password in Safe Mode.

If the keyboard works in Safe Mode, a recently installed program or driver might be causing the problem. You can uninstall recent updates or software to fix the issue.

FAQs

Why can’t I type my password only on the login screen?

This usually happens due to keyboard driver issues, incorrect keyboard layout, or system glitches that affect input before Windows fully loads.

Can I use a different keyboard to fix this problem?

Yes. Trying another keyboard can help determine if the issue is hardware-related.

Is the on-screen keyboard always available on the login screen?

Yes. You can access it anytime by clicking the Ease of Access icon in the bottom-right corner.

Will reinstalling Windows fix this issue?

Reinstalling Windows is a last resort and usually not necessary. Most keyboard issues can be fixed using the steps above.

How do I prevent this problem from happening again?

Keep your system updated, avoid installing untrusted software, and regularly check keyboard settings to ensure they remain correct.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, consider the following options:

  • Use a USB recovery drive: Boot from a USB recovery disk to access advanced troubleshooting tools.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for help.
  • Seek professional help: If hardware damage is suspected, a technician can diagnose and repair physical keyboard problems.

Conclusion

The “Can’t Type Password” error on Windows 10 can be caused by simple issues like keyboard connection problems, incorrect settings, or driver errors. Starting with basic checks and gradually moving to more advanced solutions helps you fix the problem without confusion.

Using the on-screen keyboard allows you to log in immediately, while updating drivers and checking system files address underlying causes. Remember to verify your keyboard layout and disable Filter Keys if necessary.

If all else fails, Safe Mode and recovery options provide further troubleshooting paths. Keeping your system healthy and drivers updated reduces the chance of encountering this problem again.

By following this guide, you should be able to restore keyboard functionality and access your Windows 10 account smoothly.

Leave a Reply