How to Lock Keyboard: Easy Methods for Windows & macOS
Small children, pets, and other interferences may press the wrong buttons on your keyboard and jolt the computer business. It is always useful to know how to lock your keyboard because sometimes it can help to save time to do it correctly and avoid making a mistake. In this article, we will discuss a few very well-optimized methods to lock the keyboard on Windows, Mac, and third-party keyboard applications.
Why You May Need to Lock Your Keyboard
Keyboard locking can be necessary for multiple scenarios:
- Children or pets touching the keys when you are away from the desk or listening to business meetings.
- Reducing instances of making typos, especially when emotionally charged or typing at work.
- Alienate shift without the opportunity to take inputs while in the said period breaks.
For this, keyboard locking tools and shortcuts are effective tools for handling these appropriately.
Using Keyboard Locker to Temporarily Lock Your Keyboard on Windows
Keyboard Locker is a popular tool designed to lock your keyboard with a simple shortcut. Here’s how you can use it:
Step 1: Download the Keyboard Locker Tool
- Go to the Keyboard Locker download source (official AutoHotKey versions).
- Unzip the package and locate the KeyboardLocker.exe.
Step 2: Run the Program
- Place a double-click on KeyboardLocker.exe.
- You will see a keyboard icon in the screen’s lower right corner, as shown below, indicating it’s now live.
3: Press the Shortcut to Lock the Keyboard
- Keyboard locking can be done using keyboard shortcuts which include pressing Ctrl + Alt + L.
- You will now find that keyboard inputs have been blocked.
Step 4: Unlocking Your Keyboard
To unlock, type the word ‘unlock’, and the keyboard will be unlocked right away.
Bonus Tip: Although it is not configurable via environment variables, you can edit the included AHK script if you’re familiar with AutoHotKey.
How to Enable Lock Keyboard Using Hotkeys (Windows)
If you’re on Windows 10/11, here are alternative methods:
Using Windows’ Accessibility Options:
- Click through Ease of Access Settings which can be found in the Start menu.
- Switch to keyboard options in the “Keyboard Settings” menu.
- Specify the right mode or use override shortcuts if available.
Note: These can often help quickly disable accidental key presses.
How to Enable Lock Keyboard on macOS (Built-in Options)
If you’re on macOS, you can use built-in options:
- Click on System Preferences > Keyboard.
- Under the Settings and Permission you will find the settings of keyboard input lock where input methods can be temporarily stopped.
Some other parties, like Karabiner, will too allow this emulation on macOS.
Third-Party Apps to Lock Your Keyboard Securely
Keyboard shortcuts and default OS features are great, but third-party tools can be a fantastic alternative:
- BlueLife KeyFreeze
- Ideal for Windows users.
- Portable freeware that blocks both, the keyboard and the mouse at once.
- KidKeyLock
- Perfect for groups or for any business setting. Prevent accidental interruptions.
- SafeInput
- Mac OS X is equivalent to locking computer shortcuts when one is not actively typing.
Download these apps from the rightful app stores of their developers for security purposes.
How to Unlock Your Keyboard Using Commands and Settings
If you ever face difficulty unlocking using simple shortcuts, use the following:
Windows Recovery Options:
- Try rebooting your computer or check the list of running processes in Task Manager.
- Keyboard Locker utilities must be re-launched if locked.
Common Reasons Why You May Want Keyboard Lock
Here are frequent use cases:
- Pet or Child Misbehavior: Leave your keyboard locked when you are not at your computer.
- Slowing down during sensitive typing.
- Presentation Mode: Stop going through slides or scrolling the page during a presentation shared using a keyboard.
- Data Security: Avoid such things as pressing keys without knowing during computer operations.
Keyboard lock isn’t just convenience—it’s a proactive security measure.
Conclusion
Computer keyboard locking is useful for securing your keyboard and making your work organized and efficient. Whether you’ll be using Keyboard Locker utilities, Windows settings, macOS built-in settings, or third-party apps, there are many ways to ensure that your keyboard remains safe and functional whenever you need it.
Now you know all the steps you need to lock your keyboard using shortcuts, apps or settings. Start today and stop making those awful mistakes on the keyboard!
Also Read: How to Turn On Your Phone Without the Power Button
