I have a laptop that runs Linux, and my parents mainly use it to watch shows. Recently, it's been acting strange, almost like the Ctrl key is stuck. I checked the keys and they seem fine, but the issue comes and goes, which makes it super annoying because typing or using the mouse becomes really difficult. A friend suggested that it might be a software issue and mentioned reinstalling the OS later on. Meanwhile, I want to plug in an external keyboard for my parents' convenience, but the built-in keyboard is still active, so the Ctrl issue persists. Normally, I'd just reinstall the drivers to disable the built-in keyboard, but I can't figure out how to do that on Linux since I can't type any commands. I don't even know what version of Linux we're using! Any advice would be appreciated, and please be patient with me as I'm not a programmer and mainly just use my big PC for work and gaming.
3 Answers
You should consider installing an on-screen keyboard like 'onboard.' You can usually find this in the accessibility settings of your Linux desktop. That way, you have a workaround until you sort out the physical keyboard issues. Do note, though, if the on-screen keyboard displays the Ctrl key as being pressed, it might indicate another problem like potential liquid damage.
I get that it must be frustrating! Have you tried unplugging the internal keyboard? If it’s a hardware-style connection, it could work to disable it that way temporarily while you're using the external keyboard. Just a thought!
Have you thought about trying to enter commands when the keyboard is functioning normally? The Ctrl issue affects everything, including the GUI, so finding a moment when it works might allow you to make changes without worrying about typing issues as much. Plus, if you've access to clean the laptop to check for dust, that could also help.
I hadn't tried that! Since I don’t really use this laptop much, I’ll check it out tomorrow and see if I can clean it up and try again.
Thanks for the suggestion! I might have explained it poorly, but the keyboard issue is with the laptop’s built-in keyboard. I want to disable it so I can use the external one without the Ctrl problem affecting things.