Screenshotting is a fundamental need for most users, but sometimes the Print Screen keyboard button is not working, and you are left helpless to take screenshots of your screen. If you happen to be in such a plight and would like to know, “Why is my print screen disabled on my computer?” fear not!
In this guide, we will discuss the usual reasons for this and some handy solutions for print screen not capturing screenshots.
Why is My Print Screen Disabled on My Computer?
There are various reasons why the Print Screen button may not be working. Some of the most common reasons include:
Keyboard Shortcuts Conflict: Other applications may be hijacking the Print Screen feature.
Software or Driver Problems: Older or faulty drivers can turn off the Print Screen functionality.
Disabled Snip & Sketch Tool: If you happen to be utilizing the default Windows screenshot application for taking a screenshot, problems with Snip & Sketch can stop screenshots.
Background Apps Interfering: Other third-party software, such as screen capture applications, may be taking over the Print Screen.
Function Key Lock: On certain laptops, you may press the Fn + Print Screen keys combination.
Incorrect Keyboard Settings: The Windows settings can be incorrect, thus preventing the issue.
How to Fix Print Screen Not Capturing Screenshots
If the print screen is not capturing a screenshot, then try these solutions:
1. Restart Your Computer
A mere reboot can solve most technical faults, including screenshot problems.
2. Check Your Keyboard for Issues
Ensure your keyboard is properly connected.
Try using another keyboard to verify if the issue persists.
If using a laptop, check if Fn + Print Screen works instead.
3. Turn on Print Screen from Windows Settings
If the Print Screen key is not working, ensure it is turned on.
Go to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
Scroll down to the Print Screen shortcut area and turn it on.
4. Try Using Snip & Sketch
When Print Screen is still not functional, utilize Snip & Sketch:
Click Windows + Shift + S to launch the application.
When that does not function, reinstall or update Snip & Sketch using the Microsoft Store.
5. Update Keyboard and Display Drivers
Old drivers tend to generate functional problems:
Tap on Device Manager.
Hit the Keyboards and Display Adapters and tap to expand.
Tap with the right button and go for Update Driver.
6. Disable Overlapped Background Apps
Some programs, such as OneDrive, Dropbox, or screen capture programs, may be taking over the Print Screen feature. Try closing background programs that are not needed:
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to activate Task Manager.
Close OneDrive, Dropbox, or similar clipboard manager tasks.
7. Update Windows
Windows updates generally correct bugs impacting system functionality:
Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Press Check for updates and apply available updates.
8. Change Registry Settings (Expert Users)
As a last measure, attempt the following to change the registry:
Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\\\\\\\\Software\\\\\\ Microsoft\\\\\\\\Windows\\\\\\\\CurrentVersion\\\\\\\\Explorer.
Find screenshot index, right-click, and change the value.
Restart your computer.
Final Words
If your print screen not functioning on my computer problem is irritating you, these solutions should be able to make it work. In case none of them work, resort to third-party screen capture software such as Lightshot or Greenshot as a last option. Good luck with taking smooth screenshots once more!