How in the Tech

Nuke the Sticky / Filter Keys popup dialog

By Adam Myers ⋅ December 17, 2009 ⋅ Tags: Annoyances, Windows

StickyKeys and FilterKeys are two Windows accessibility features for those that suffer physical disabilities. StickyKeys allows the user to activate a modifier key – such as Alt or Ctrl – and have it remain active until another key is pressed. FilterKeys, when activated, instructs Windows to ignore brief or repeated keystrokes and as a result, makes typing easier for these users. Both accessibility features are activate either by hitting the Shift key 5 times (StickyKeys) or holding the Shift key for 8 seconds (FilterKeys). This functionality is enabled by default, meaning that using the shift key in the previous manner will trigger the feature. Unfortunately, it is possible in normal usage of Windows to activate either feature accidentally, where you are then presented with an irritating popup dialog. Since the majority of Windows users do not need these accessibility options, here’s how to turn them off outright.

Launch the Ease of Access Center from the Start Search box.

Scroll down and click the link for Make the keyboard easier to use.

Look for the Set up Sticky Keys option in the dialog window.

Uncheck the box next to Turn on Sticky Keys when SHIFT is pressed five times then click Apply.

To disable Filter Keys, repeat step 3 by instead choosing Set up Filter Keys.

And uncheck Turn on Filter Keys ….

That’s all there is too it – no reboot necessary.