A computer keyboard is an input device used to enter characters and functions into the computer system by pressing buttons, or keys . It is the primary device used to enter text. A keyboard typically contains keys for individual letters, numbers and special characters, as well as keys for specific functions. A keyboard is connected to a computer system using a cable or a wireless connection. Typical keyboard for a desktop computer Most keyboards have a very similar layout. The individual keys for letters, numbers and special characters are collectively called the character keys . The layout of these keys is derived from the original layout of keys on a typewriter. The most widely used layout in the English language is called QWERTY , named after the sequence of the first six letters from the top left. Other sets of keys common to almost all keyboards are entering and editing keys (e.g., Enter, Delete, Insert), modifier keys (e.g., Control, Shift), navigatio...