Turning off NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can be accomplished in just a few steps. Whether you’re temporarily turning it off or switching to another screen reader, this guide will help you do it quickly. Follow the steps below to turn off NVDA and understand what will happen when you complete these actions.
How to Turn Off NVDA Windows 10
Turning off NVDA in Windows 10 will stop the screen reader from reading aloud the text on your screen. This can be useful if you need to use another screen reader or if you simply don’t need it at the moment.
Step 1: Focus on the NVDA Application
Open the NVDA application by clicking on its icon in the system tray or using the Alt + Tab keys to switch to it.
First things first, you need to make sure NVDA is the active application. This means you’ll either click on its icon or use keyboard shortcuts to bring it to the forefront.
Step 2: Open the NVDA Menu
Press the NVDA key (usually Insert or Caps Lock) along with the N key to open the NVDA menu.
This step opens up the menu where you can access various settings and options. It’s like opening the toolbox of your screen reader.
Step 3: Navigate to Exit
Use the arrow keys to navigate to the "Exit" option and press Enter.
Navigating to the "Exit" option will allow you to close the NVDA application. Think of it as turning off the lights when you leave a room.
Step 4: Confirm Exit
A dialog box will appear asking if you’re sure you want to exit. Press Enter to confirm.
Confirming the exit ensures that you indeed want to turn off NVDA. This step acts as a safeguard against accidental shutdowns.
Step 5: Verify NVDA is Off
Check the system tray to ensure the NVDA icon is no longer there.
Verifying that NVDA is turned off ensures that the screen reader is no longer running in the background. It’s like double-checking that the door is locked.
Once you complete these steps, NVDA will stop reading aloud any text on your screen. You won’t hear any more voice prompts from NVDA, making it clear that the application is turned off.
Tips for Turning Off NVDA Windows 10
- Make sure to save any important work before turning off NVDA.
- If you use NVDA frequently, consider setting a shortcut for quicker access to the ‘Exit’ option.
- Explore other screen readers like JAWS or Narrator if you need alternatives.
- Keep NVDA updated to ensure it works well when you turn it back on.
- Learn the keyboard shortcuts for quicker navigation within NVDA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NVDA?
NVDA stands for NonVisual Desktop Access. It’s a free, open-source screen reader for Windows, designed for visually impaired users.
Can I temporarily disable NVDA?
Yes, you can exit NVDA to turn it off temporarily. Simply follow the steps provided to turn it off and restart it when needed.
How do I restart NVDA after turning it off?
You can restart NVDA by finding its icon in the Start menu or using a desktop shortcut if you have one set up.
Will turning off NVDA affect my system settings?
No, turning off NVDA will not affect your system settings. It simply stops the screen reader from running.
Is NVDA compatible with other screen readers?
Yes, NVDA can coexist with other screen readers. You can turn off NVDA and use a different screen reader if needed.
Summary
- Focus on the NVDA application.
- Open the NVDA menu.
- Navigate to Exit.
- Confirm Exit.
- Verify NVDA is Off.
Conclusion
Turning off NVDA in Windows 10 is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps. Whether you’re an experienced user or new to screen readers, knowing how to turn off NVDA can help you manage your computer more effectively. Once you’ve turned off NVDA, you’ll find that it stops reading text aloud, which can be useful when you need a break or when switching to another screen reader.
Don’t forget to explore other screen reader options and keep your software updated for the best experience. If you want to dive deeper into screen reader functionalities or have other tech-related queries, keep an eye out for our future articles. Happy navigating!
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.