Most keyboards have a numeric lock feature, including those with designated numeric keys above the letter keys. Even compact laptop keyboards have a Num Lock key. The name of the key may vary from Num Lock to NumLock to NumLK or something similar, but the functionality remains the same.
How does a combination lock work?
Below you can read how the Num Lock key works, how to find and enable it, and how to use it.
A number lock key replaces the functions of certain keys on the keyboard with a numeric keypad. Some computers automatically turn on number lock during startup, but on most compact keyboards you must turn it on manually.
This often-ignored feature can be useful in a variety of situations. For example, some people find it easier to type long strings of numbers using a keypad, such as those on phones and calculators. Also, sometimes you need to turn on Num Lock to type special characters, such as curly quotes.