Document Editing Problems

How to Follow Word Links Using a German Keyboard Layout

Ayan Masood Sep 25, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to know how to execute the 'Ctrl+Click' command to open hyperlinks in a Word document while using a German keyboard layout.

How to Follow Word Links Using a German Keyboard Layout

Product: Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Opening hyperlinks within a Word document using a localized regional keyboard.
Observed behavior: Word instructs the user to 'Ctrl-click' to follow a hyperlink, but the German keyboard lacks a key explicitly labeled 'Ctrl'.

Before you start

Ensure your document is in reading or editing mode and that the hyperlink is active (usually underlined and in a different text color).

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Strg Key to Follow Hyperlinks

On German keyboards, the 'Ctrl' (Control) key is localized as 'Strg' (Steuerung). You use this key to execute all Ctrl-based shortcuts and actions.

Regional keyboard layouts often translate modifier keys into the local language. In Germany and Austria, the Control key is labeled as Steuerung, abbreviated as Strg.

Locate the Strg Key

Find the 'Strg' key on your German keyboard. It is typically located at the bottom-left and bottom-right corners of the main keyboard area, exactly where the 'Ctrl' key is positioned on an English layout.

Hover over the hyperlink

Move your mouse cursor over the hyperlink in your Word document. A tooltip will appear prompting you to 'Ctrl-click to follow link'.

Click to open the link

Press and hold the 'Strg' key, then left-click the hyperlink with your mouse. Release the key once your default web browser opens the destination URL.

Keyboard Shortcut Translation: All standard Word shortcuts using 'Ctrl' apply to the 'Strg' key as well. For example, to copy text, press Strg+C instead of Ctrl+C.

Efficient Word Processing

Open and Edit Hyperlinks Seamlessly in WPS Writer

WPS Writer offers full compatibility with standard keyboard shortcuts across all regional layouts, including German keyboards. You can easily navigate, open, and edit hyperlinks in your documents natively.

1. Open your document: Launch WPS Writer and open the document containing the hyperlinks you want to access.
2. Hold the control key: Press and hold the 'Strg' key on your German keyboard.
3. Click to navigate: Left-click the hyperlink text to instantly open the destination URL in your default web browser.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word (.docx, .doc) formatsAutomatically recognizes localized keyboard shortcuts like StrgLightweight application with a familiar user interfaceBuilt-in advanced hyperlink editing tools

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a link in Word without holding down any key?

Yes, you can change the settings to open links with just a single click. Go to File > Options > Advanced, and under the Editing options section, uncheck the box for 'Use CTRL + Click to follow hyperlink'. Once disabled, clicking the link directly will open it.

Why isn't the link opening when I press Strg and click?

Ensure that the text is actually formatted as an active hyperlink. If it is just plain text colored blue, you will need to select it, right-click, and choose 'Link' (or press Strg+K) to add a valid URL. Additionally, verify that a default web browser is set in your operating system settings.

Are other Word shortcuts affected by using a German keyboard?

While the 'Ctrl' key is replaced by 'Strg', most standard shortcuts remain the same (e.g., Strg+C for Copy, Strg+V for Paste). However, because the physical layout of letters like Z and Y are swapped on a QWERTZ keyboard, the physical position of shortcuts like Undo (Strg+Z) will be different.

Document & File Issues