How to Turn Off Insert Key on Keyboard Windows 10
Tired of accidentally hitting the Insert key on your keyboard and overwriting your text? Here’s a quick fix! You can disable the Insert key in Windows 10 by remapping the keyboard using the Windows Registry Editor. Follow these steps for a hassle-free typing experience.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Turn Off Insert Key on Keyboard Windows 10
This tutorial will guide you through the process of disabling the Insert key on your keyboard by modifying the Windows registry settings. Be careful when editing the registry, as incorrect changes can affect your system.
Step 1: Open Registry Editor
First, press Windows + R
to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit
and press Enter.
Opening the Registry Editor allows you to access system settings that can be adjusted to customize your Windows experience.
Step 2: Navigate to the Keyboard Layout Key
In the Registry Editor, go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlKeyboard Layout
.
This path takes you to the settings that control your keyboard layout and behavior.
Step 3: Create a New Binary Value
Right-click on the Keyboard Layout key, select New
, and then choose Binary Value
. Name it Scancode Map
.
Creating a new binary value enables you to specify which key you want to remap or disable.
Step 4: Modify the Scancode Map
Double-click on Scancode Map
and enter the following value: 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 02 00 00 00 00 00 52 E0 00 00 00 00
. Click OK
and close the Registry Editor.
This binary data tells Windows to disable the Insert key by remapping its function to do nothing.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Restart your computer to apply the changes.
A restart is required for the new settings to take effect, ensuring that the Insert key is successfully disabled.
After completing these steps, your Insert key will no longer overwrite your text. You can now type without worrying about accidentally hitting this key.
Tips: How to Turn Off Insert Key on Keyboard Windows 10
- Always back up the registry before making any changes. This ensures you can restore your system if something goes wrong.
- You can re-enable the Insert key by deleting the
Scancode Map
entry in the Registry Editor. - Use keyboard mapping software like SharpKeys for a more user-friendly approach to remapping keys.
- If you’re uncomfortable editing the registry, seek help from someone who is more experienced.
- Make sure to restart your computer after making changes to apply them correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Turn Off Insert Key on Keyboard Windows 10
What is the Insert key used for?
The Insert key toggles between insert mode and overwrite mode in text editors.
What does the Scancode Map value mean?
The Scancode Map value tells Windows how to interpret key presses and can be used to remap or disable keys.
Can I re-enable the Insert key later?
Yes, re-enable it by deleting the Scancode Map
entry in the Registry Editor and restarting your computer.
Is it safe to edit the registry?
Editing the registry is safe if done correctly. Always back up the registry before making changes to avoid potential issues.
Are there alternative ways to disable the Insert key?
Yes, you can use software like SharpKeys, which provides a graphical interface for remapping keys without editing the registry.
Summary: How to Turn Off Insert Key on Keyboard Windows 10
- Open Registry Editor
- Navigate to the Keyboard Layout Key
- Create a New Binary Value
- Modify the Scancode Map
- Restart Your Computer
Conclusion
Turning off the Insert key on your Windows 10 keyboard is a straightforward task when you follow the right steps. By tweaking the Windows Registry, you can put an end to the frustration of accidentally overwriting your text. Always remember to back up the registry before making any changes, and consider using dedicated software if you find the process intimidating.
This guide not only helps you disable the Insert key but also arms you with knowledge about how your keyboard’s behavior can be customized. If you’re ever in doubt or need further guidance, there’s plenty of additional reading material and forums online where you can seek advice. Happy typing without interruptions!

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.