If you’ve ever found yourself juggling between languages on your computer, you might be wondering how to get an international keyboard on Windows 11. This process is quite simple and allows you to switch between different languages and keyboard layouts with ease. Below, you’ll find a detailed step-by-step guide to help you achieve this, as well as some handy tips and FAQs to broaden your understanding.
How to Get International Keyboard on Windows 11
This straightforward guide will show you how to add an international keyboard on Windows 11. By following these steps, you’ll be able to type in different languages and use special characters not available on the standard English keyboard.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, click on the Start menu and select ‘Settings.’
The Settings app is where you’ll find all the customization options for your Windows 11 PC. You can also use the shortcut Windows key + I to open Settings directly.
Step 2: Go to Time & Language
Next, navigate to the ‘Time & Language’ section.
In this section, you can adjust all language-related settings, including the keyboard layout.
Step 3: Click on Language & Region
Select ‘Language & Region’ from the sidebar.
This menu allows you to manage the languages installed on your system and their corresponding keyboard layouts.
Step 4: Add a Language
Now, click on ‘Add a language.’
A list of languages will appear, from which you can select the one you want to add.
Step 5: Select the Language
Choose the language you need and click ‘Next.’
Make sure to select the option to install the language pack if you need full language support, not just the keyboard layout.
Step 6: Install the Language
Click ‘Install’ to download and set up the new language.
The installation process may take a few minutes, depending on the size of the language pack and your internet speed.
Step 7: Change Keyboard Layout
After installation, go back to ‘Language & Region’ and click on the language you added.
Here, you’ll find options to adjust the keyboard layout. Select the ‘Options’ button to customize it further.
Step 8: Add a Keyboard
Under the ‘Keyboards’ section, click on ‘Add a keyboard.’
A list of different keyboard layouts will appear. Select the international keyboard layout you need.
Step 9: Switch Keyboards
Finally, use the keyboard shortcut Windows key + Space to switch between installed keyboard layouts.
This allows you to toggle between different keyboards effortlessly whenever you need to type in another language.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your international keyboard will be ready to use. You can switch between layouts easily, making it simple to type in various languages.
Tips for Getting International Keyboard on Windows 11
- Shortcut Keys: Familiarize yourself with the keyboard shortcuts like Windows key + Space to switch between different keyboards swiftly.
- Language Preferences: Make sure to set your preferred language as default if you will use it more frequently.
- Customize Layouts: Use the ‘Options’ in Language & Region to customize your keyboard layout for better user experience.
- Regional Settings: Adjust regional settings to match the new language to get the correct date, time, and number formats.
- Updates: Keep your Windows updated to ensure all language packs are functioning correctly with the latest features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add multiple keyboards?
Yes, you can add multiple keyboards and switch between them using Windows key + Space.
Do I need an internet connection to add a new language?
Yes, an internet connection is required to download the language pack.
Will this change my system language?
No, adding a keyboard layout doesn’t change your system language unless you specify it.
Can I remove a keyboard layout later?
Yes, you can remove any keyboard layout from the ‘Language & Region’ section in Settings.
Is there a limit to how many keyboards I can add?
There’s no strict limit, but having too many could make switching between them cumbersome.
Summary
- Open Settings
- Go to Time & Language
- Click on Language & Region
- Add a Language
- Select the Language
- Install the Language
- Change Keyboard Layout
- Add a Keyboard
- Switch Keyboards
Conclusion
Setting up an international keyboard on Windows 11 can greatly enhance your typing experience, especially if you’re multilingual or need to use special characters often. Whether for work, study, or personal use, knowing how to switch between different keyboards can be a game-changer.
This guide has provided you with a clear path to adding and using an international keyboard, along with useful tips and answers to common questions. Now, you should feel confident in customizing your Windows 11 keyboard settings to meet your needs.
For further reading, you might want to explore additional language settings, or perhaps dive deeper into the accessibility options available in Windows 11. So go ahead, give it a try, and start typing away in all the languages you need!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.