# How Fn Lock changes function keys and how to toggle it

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/what-is-the-fn-lock-icon-used-for-and-how-do-you-turn-it-off-and-on/
- Published: 2026-11-15T19:15:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-15T19:47:39+00:00
- Original publisher: Engadget
- Original article: https://www.engadget.com/2313821/what-is-fn-lock-icon-how-to-use/
- Topics: Gadgets

## Key points

- Fn Lock keeps an alternate function-key mode switched on.
- Fn with Shift or Esc may toggle it.
- BIOS settings or keyboard software can change the default.

## Summary

Fn Lock toggles the function keys between their standard F1–F12 actions and alternate controls, such as media functions. It matters most on compact keyboards, where one row of keys handles more than one task, and its behaviour varies by keyboard.

The Fn key usually switches modes while held, whereas Fn Lock keeps the alternate mode active until toggled again. Look for a dedicated Fn Lock key or a lock icon; common toggle combinations include Fn with Shift or Esc. BIOS settings, often labelled Function Key Mode or Action Key Mode, and some keyboard software can also set the default.

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