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// troubleshooting guide · microsoft powertoys

PowerToys Run Not Working (Alt+Space)

Status
Workaround available
platforms:
Windows 10, Windows 11
updated:
November 15, 2026
reports:
4
Method
how we research
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RUNBOOK · powertoys/run-not-working7 FIXES

// quick answer

When Alt+Space does nothing, PowerToys usually isn't running, the Run module is off, or an elevated window or another tool is grabbing the shortcut. Re-enable Run, try the centralized keyboard hook, or restart PowerToys as admin.

Most likely fix: Make sure PowerToys is running

How to fix it

// try these in order, the most common fix is first

  1. FIX 1Make sure PowerToys is running

    1. 01Look for the PowerToys icon in the system tray
    2. 02If missing, start PowerToys from Start
    3. 03Settings > General > enable Run at startup
    Did this fix it?

  2. FIX 2Turn the Run module back on

    1. 01Open PowerToys Settings > PowerToys Run
    2. 02Toggle Enable PowerToys Run on
    Did this fix it?

  3. FIX 3Enable the centralized keyboard hook

    1. 01PowerToys Run settings > turn on 'Use centralized keyboard hook'
    2. 02Microsoft suggests this when the shortcut fails or Run doesn't get focus from an elevated window
    Did this fix it?

  4. FIX 4Change the activation shortcut

    1. 01PowerToys Run > Activation shortcut
    2. 02Pick a combo no other tool uses, e.g. Win+Alt+R
    Did this fix it?

  5. FIX 5Rule out Keyboard Manager conflicts

    1. 01Temporarily disable Keyboard Manager
    2. 02If Run works again, remove remaps that touch Alt, Space, Win or Ctrl
    Did this fix it?

  6. FIX 6Restart PowerToys as administrator

    1. 01Settings > General > Restart as administrator
    2. 02Needed if the shortcut fails while admin apps are focused
    Did this fix it?

  7. FIX 7Update PowerToys

    1. 01Settings > General > Check for updates, or run 'winget upgrade Microsoft.PowerToys'
    Did this fix it?

Symptoms

Pressing Alt+Space does nothing, opens the window menu instead, or works only in some apps.

Why it happens

  • C-01PowerToys isn't running (closed or not set to run at startup)
  • C-02PowerToys Run toggled off after an update
  • C-03An elevated (admin) window has focus
  • C-04Keyboard Manager or another launcher/hotkey tool captures Alt or Space
  • C-05Full-screen app with 'Ignore shortcuts in full-screen mode' on

// this guide also covers

  • powertoys run not working
  • alt space not working powertoys
  • powertoys run shortcut not working
  • powertoys run not opening

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