Reassignment of extensions

Conflicting Extensions

Add-ons, also called plug-ins or extensions, are mini-applications that attach themselves to independent software and add extra capabilities to the program.

Extensions can change a browser's interface, alter the behavior of existing operations, add new functions or install in-browser support for programs like Shockwave Flash or Adobe Reader.

Because these extensions make changes to the overall operation of a browser, they can also affect the shortcut keys.

Most browsers offer an option to run the application with add-ons disabled; if the shortcut keys work when extensions are turned off, one of the add-ons is at fault.

Key Reassignments

Programs like MapKeyboard, SharpKeys and KeyTweak can reassign the functions of each key on the laptop keyboard.

If the computer is running a non standard keyboard layout, certain keys might not behave or respond normally.

For example, if the "Ctrl" key has been disabled or is set to work like "Shift," shortcut keys won't work as expected because the keyboard is no longer using its default mapping.

If the keyboard layout has been changed in the Dell laptop, the registry will contain a Scancode Map entry in

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Keyboard Layout or the language bar will show a keyboard language different from the default ("English (United States)," or "EN," for Dell laptops purchased in the U.S.).

Virus Infection

Malicious software can affect the function of peripheral components like the keyboard and mouse.

If the keyboard is exhibiting strange behavior for example, if certain keys do not respond or if keys output unexpected letters a virus is most likely the cause.

Running an anti malware software from within Safe Mode accessed by pressing "F8" on the Dell logo screen should remove any viruses interfering with keyboard response.

Browser Software

Upgrading or downgrading a browser on the PC can affect the Internet shortcut keys associated with that program, especially if the version removes a function that was once associated with a particular keyboard combination.

Alternatively, if you've switched to another browser, you might find that certain shortcuts that worked in the previous browser don't work in the new one.

For example, while "Shift-F10" opens a context menu in Internet Explorer, the same keyboard combination does nothing in Mozilla Firefox.

Hope this helps.