How to customize keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11

In today's era, Personalization and efficiency when using the computer have become indispensable requirements for those looking to get the most out of their devices. In this sense, it is very interesting to learn how to modify and customize keyboard shortcuts on Windows 11. A very useful resource for both professionals and casual users.

It's amazing how many possibilities Microsoft's operating system offers for customizing shortcuts and remapping keys. Although the traditional keyboards They usually come with a standard layout, the tools and options available today allow completely transform the way we interact with our PCWe explain everything below:

Why customize keys and shortcuts in Windows 11?

Most of us use keyboards with layouts QWERTY or AZERTY, designed to offer a standard experience suitable for most people. However, these key schemes don't always meet all of our specific needs. Customize shortcuts and keys allows you to adapt the keyboard to your work style, improve productivity and reduce physical strain by minimizing complex or repetitive combinations.

For example, you can turn a rarely used key into your favorite shortcut, assign a macro to automate actions, or simply swap keys whose layout isn't comfortable for you. The customization possibilities are enormous And best of all, most of these changes can be reversed or adjusted at any time.

We cannot ignore that Windows 11 includes new native shortcuts Very interesting. Some of the most notable ones, perfect for making the most of the system, are:

• Windows+A: Opens quick settings.
• Windows+N: Displays the notification center and calendar.
• Windows+W: opens widgets.
• Windows+Z: Activates the Setup Wizard for arranging windows.

Main tool: PowerToys, the key to customizing keys and shortcuts

 

Among all the available options, Microsoft PowerToys It has established itself as the best tool for customizing keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11. This application, developed by Microsoft itself, stands out for its full compatibility with the system and for the versatility it offers thanks to your module «Keyboard Manager».

How to start using PowerToys?

1. First download and install PowerToysYou can find PowerToys directly in the Windows 11 app store. Just search for the app, install it, and launch it.
2. Then access the Keyboard ManagerOnce installed, find the PowerToys icon in your system tray, click on it, and navigate to the Keyboard Manager module. If this is your first time, you may need to enable the module by toggling the switch to "On."

The Keyboard Manager allows you to make changes to both the key layout and remap keyboard shortcuts. Its interface is simple and straightforward, showing you the current functions of each key. It also gives you the option to remap them to other functions or combinations.

Step by Step: Remap a Key in Windows 11 with PowerToys

Configuring and modifying keys is an intuitive process when using PowerToys. Here are the basic steps to get started:

1. Opens power toys and enters the Keyboard manager.
2. Click on Remap a keyA window will open where you can create new assignments.
3. Press the icon «+» to add a new reassignment.
4. Select the key you want to change in the left column.
5. Select the new function or key in the right column, which can be another individual key, a key combination, or even a keyboard shortcut.
6. You can use the function «Write» to press the key directly, making configuration easier if you can't find the key you're looking for in the drop-down menu.
7. When you have completed the desired reassignments, click on Accept. If a warning pops up, select Continue anyway to apply the changes.

From now on, with these new keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11,  the keys will work according to your new instructionsFor example, if you assign the number 0 to act as Windows + I, pressing 0 will open Windows Settings instead of typing a zero.

Advanced Customization: Remap Entire Keyboard Shortcuts

In addition to changing a single key, PowerToys allows you to remap entire key combinations, which is especially useful if you want to customize shortcuts globally or within specific applications.

1. Within the Keyboard Manager, look for the option Reassign a shortcut in the Shortcuts section.
2. press + to create a new shortcut remap.
3. In the “Select” column, enter the key combination you want to change (for example, Alt+C).
4. In the "To Send" column, choose the new shortcut or function that combination will have.
5. You can specify that this change only applies to a specific application by adding the process name, such as "winword.exe" for Word.

This feature is extremely useful for those who use specific programs or productivity tools that require custom shortcuts. Customizing keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11 allows you to customize keyboard behavior in specific applications without affecting overall system use.

Other ways to customize shortcuts and keys in Windows 11

Although PowerToys is the most complete and official alternative, There are other applications and methods For those looking for different options to customize keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11. Or for those who require specific functions that PowerToys doesn't offer.

• SharpKeys: A veteran tool, very easy to use. Its interface is quite simple, but it perfectly handles basic key remapping. It's ideal if you're looking for something lightweight and fast, without complications or complex menus.
• KeyTweak: It has a more modern and user-friendly visual interface, with a virtual keyboard that makes it easier to select keys to remap. It also allows you to create custom profiles, very useful if you share a computer or use different work modes.
• Key Remapper: It stands out for its drag-and-drop system for assigning or disabling functions. It's simple yet powerful and offers a wide variety of keyboard layouts to suit almost any physical build or preference.

Each of these programs has its own personality and advantages, so You can try several until you find the one that best suits your needs.Important: Although they're third-party apps, most work correctly on Windows 11, but if you're looking for maximum compatibility and stability, PowerToys is always the recommended option.

Customizing Shortcuts: Shortcuts in Specific Microsoft Applications

Microsoft Office and some applications allow Customize keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11 natively. For example in Word You can assign or remove shortcuts for any command, macro, font, style, or symbol:

1. From the Word options, Accede to Customize Ribbon and select Customize now on the bottom.
2. Choose the document or template where you will save the changes, select the category and command to modify.
3. Press the key combination you want to assign and check if it is already in use.
4. You can remove shortcuts by selecting the existing combination and pressing Delete.

Other Microsoft solutions: Mouse and Keyboard Center

Microsoft also offers the Mouse and Keyboard Center, designed for your own keyboards. This program allows you to remap multiple keys to commands, shortcuts, and even functions exclusive to Microsoft keyboards. The basic steps are:

• Download and install the Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center.
• Connect the compatible keyboard.
• Select the key you want to reassign and choose a new function from the available commands.

This option is more focused on those who have Microsoft hardware, but it is another reliable and very safe alternative for those who have these models.

Mastering keyboard shortcut customization in Windows 11 not only helps you work more comfortably, quickly, and safely, but also transform your user experiencePay attention to the tips and try out the different options until you find the perfect configuration for you.