A closeup of the culprit!
Ever have one of those moments where you’ve tried EVERYTHING to solve a computer problem and it ends up being something so simple you just want to kick yourself?
This happened to me the other day. I was in front of a Windows 7 computer system and when I typed in a password, web address or text in a document, new windows would start popping up all over my desktop! The more I typed, the greater the number of new windows appearing on my desktop.
I closed windows and reopned them. I logged off and on. I rebooted. Nothing worked. I started to think that this system might even be infected with some sort of virus!
I almost did a restore of the system. I even considered doing a complete re-install of Windows. Just before I launched anti-virus software to scan the system, I decided to take a step back.
I made a call to my nephew Mike. Sometimes, it’s good idea to get someone else to look at the problem from a fresh perspective.
As I described the problem, Mike launched Google and did a quick search.
Mike found the answer in just a few seconds.
“Uncle Mark? Take a look at your keyboard,” he said. “Is your Windows key stuck?”
Sure enough! On the left side of my keyboard, the second bottom key (with the little Windows logo on it) was stuck in place. I dislodged it and all was well.
The Windows key, used in combination with other keys, is a shortcut to open/launch new windows. For instance, the Windows key plus “E” with open “My Computer” in a new window.
So, if you use Windows and notice new windows opening all over your desktop when you type, take a look at your keyboard. Make sure that the Windows key isn’t stuck. It’ll save you a lot of grief.
Or, you could just run Linux and not have any Windows headaches.
> Or, you could just run Linux and not have any Windows headaches.
While Linux doesn’t have Windows headaches (and I love it), it still does have keyboard shortcuts so you would have still been affected.
Yes, agreed.:) It was just a head slap moment. “The Windows key is stuck! D’oh!” Just don’t want to see others wrestle with this should it happen to them.:)
While I personally think that Linux is a better choice, this problem has nothing to do with *windows*.
Well, if my Windows key on my keyboard gets stuck in place while running Linux, I can’t continue to type. In Windows, new windows pop up all over the place. Either way, it’s just a tip to help people to avoid a problem (and pulling their hair out:)) Plus, I’m biased.:) I like Linux.:);)