Wachiwit/Shutterstock

If you prefer using an older classic keyboard such as the IBM Model M that doesnt include a physical Windows key, theres a neat way to add one using Windows 10 by borrowing a key you dont use very often. Heres how to do it.

Using Microsofts free PowerToys utility, you can easily reassign any key to work like any other key (or even give them a novel functionlike muting your audio). In our case, well be assigning the Windows key function to a key of your choice.

(By default, the Command key on a Mac keyboard functions as the Windows key if plugged into a Windows 10 machine. Theres no need to use this trick when youre using a Mac keyboard with Windowsjust use the Command key as your Windows key.)

First, if you dont already have PowerToys for Windows 10, download it for free from Microsofts website. After that, launch PowerToys, and click the Keyboard Manager option in the sidebar. In the Keyboard Manager options, click Remap A Key.

In the Remap Keyboard window that pops up, click the plus sign (+) to add a key mapping.

Now you have to decide which key you want to double as the Windows key. We find that the right Alt key works very well (if you have one), because it is easy to use for one-handed Windows shortcuts and most people use the left Alt key more frequently. You could also choose a seldom-used key, such as Scroll Lock or right Ctrl instead. Its completely up to you.

While defining the mapping in PowerToys, use the drop-down menu below the Key: heading on the left to select the key youd like to function as your Windows key. In this example, were using Alt (Right).

In the Mapped To section on the right, select Win (which represents the Windows key) from the drop-down menu.

Click OK. Windows will probably warn you that the key youre remapping wont be usable because youve reassigned it to another function. In that case, click Continue Anyway.

After that, the new Windows key mapping should be active. Test it out. If you tap the key you assigned to Windows, your Start Menu should pop up. From then on, you should also be able to use it to launch handy shortcuts such as Windows+I to open Settings.

When youre ready, close PowerToys, and you can use your computer as usual. You wont have to log out or restart your PC; your change will take effect immediately.

If you change your mind and want to assign a different key to Windows or restore the function of the key you remapped, launch PowerToys, and navigate to Keyboard Manager > Remap A Key.

Locate the mapping you defined earlier and click the trash can to delete it. Then click OK to close the window. After that, youre free to create a new mapping or simply close Power Toys.

RELATED: Why I Still Use a 34-Year-Old IBM Model M Keyboard

Read the rest here:

How to Create a Windows Key If You Dont Have One - How-To Geek