The MSI Modern 15 laptop has, like many laptops, function keys across the top row of the keyboard. For example, the F1 key has a dual function. It can also function as a mute button for the sound. The F2 key also functions as a key that lowers the volume. The F3 key can raise the volume. The F4 key can enable and disable the touch pad. I use an external USB-connected mouse instead of the touchpad.

You can set the default action to be the function keys, F1, F2, F3 and so on, or you can set the default action to the other functions that relate to the hardware. To toggle the default back and forth, press fn and the ESC key.

I’ve set the default to be the function keys (F1, F2, F3 and so on). If I want to use the hardware functionality, I just need to press and hold the fn key and then press the appropriate hardware key in the top row.