How to Fix the HP Software Framework Is Not Installed Error in Windows

Seeing the HP Software Framework error? Here's how you fix it in a flash.

If you own an HP laptop or desktop computer, you may have encountered the "HP Software Framework is not installed or not running" error. This error often appears when using your function (Fn) keys to perform tasks like adjusting the volume, the brightness, or putting the computer to sleep.

When this message pops up, the title might be HP Hotkey Support or HP Hotkey UWP Service. Both refer to drivers that come pre-installed on HP computers and enable Hotkeys to run.

Here's how you fix the error.

What Are Hotkeys?

There are many Windows keyboard shortcuts that can make your life easier when you spend a lot of time in front of your screen, especially if you don't like using your mouse. Shortcuts save time and increase productivity, and hotkeys are no exception.

When paired with the Fn key, hotkeys are keys that allow you to perform special functions without going into the settings.

For example, you might use Fn + F6 to increase brightness, Fn + F10 to mute your microphone, and Fn + F4 to switch between external displays. These keys have a box around a symbol, word, or number to highlight their special function.

Hotkey functions and locations vary on different models, so check your user manual if you’re not sure what your hotkeys do.

Normally, hotkey drivers are pre-installed and run automatically on startup, but sometimes they will unexpectedly quit running and need to be re-installed. This is what causes the HP Software Framework error that you see above.

This may happen when you update drivers or install new programs, or during automatic Windows Updates. Fortunately, it’s an easy fix. You don't even have to uninstall the old driver first.

Method 1: Install the HP Support Assistant

When the error message pops up, you're prompted to install the HP Software Framework from the link provided. Unfortunately, this link doesn’t work. The good news is the HP Support Assistant will work in its place.

Head to the HP Support Assistant page. Click the Download HP Support Assistant button to install.

Once the file is installed, restart your computer, and your hotkeys should be functional again.

Method 2: Install the HP Hotkey Support Driver

If your hotkeys still aren’t operating properly, look for specific driver files on the HP Website: HP Hotkey Service and HP Hotkey Service UWP.

To find the correct driver for your computer, you’ll need to find the exact model of your device. If the model number isn’t printed on your casing anywhere, you can easily find it in your system information.

Search for System Information from the Start menu and open the matching result. From this new window, locate your model number.

Once you’ve found your computer’s model number, go to the HP Support Website to find the driver you need. Scroll down to identify your product and enter your model number. Then click on the Software, Drivers, and Firmware tab. This will bring up a list of drivers compatible with your device.

Click on Software-Solutions. Look for HP Hotkey Support and click Download. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.

When the file installation is complete, restart your computer, and your hotkeys should be working again.

Is There Any Reason Why I Shouldn’t Download Hotkey Support?

Some users think of the HP Framework Support and the Hotkey Support software as bloatware or unnecessary software bundled with their computer and may want to get rid of it. HP advises against uninstalling these drivers, as your system may not work properly if you do. If you feel the HP support software slows your device down, you can choose to prevent it from opening on startup. That way, it is still available if you need it.

Here’s how you can change the startup settings:

1. Type Services into the Windows search bar open the matching result.
2. Locate and right-click on HP Hotkey UWP Service.
3. Click Properties.
4. Under the Startup Type dropdown menu, select Disabled.

If you’ve disabled Hotkey Support but later wish to turn it back on, simply follow steps one and two, then right-click on HP Hotkey UWP Service, and click Start.

An Easy Fix for HP Hotkey Error Messages

If your hotkeys have suddenly stopped working, or if you’re seeing the HP Hotkey Support or HP Hotkey UWP Service errors, downloading the appropriate drivers should get your hotkeys back up and running in just a few minutes.

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