REFramework Insert Key Not Working – Complete Troubleshooting Guide

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Sarfaraz Ahamed

REFramework is the leading modding framework and scripting platform for games built on Capcom’s RE Engine, including titles like Resident Evil, Monster Hunter Rise, Devil May Cry 5, and more. By default, the Insert key opens the in-game REFramework menu, providing access to powerful tools, Lua scripts, and developer options.

However, many users encounter an issue where pressing Insert does nothing. This guide explains the common causes of the problem and provides step-by-step solutions to fix the REFramework menu key issue.

Why the REFramework Insert Key Might Not Work

Before troubleshooting, it’s important to understand the common reasons the menu key fails. Most issues are related to either hardware, software conflicts, or installation problems rather than the framework itself.

1. Keyboard or Physical Key Issue

Many modern laptops, compact mechanical keyboards, or tenkeyless (TKL) setups lack a dedicated Insert key.

Fix: Use a keyboard combination like Fn + Delete or Fn + Backspace, depending on your device. Refer to your manufacturer’s documentation to emulate the Insert key.

2. Mod or Software Conflicts

Other programs or mods may intercept the Insert key before REFramework can register it.

Common Conflicts Include:

  • ReShade (often uses Home or Insert by default)
  • Graphic overlays (MSI Afterburner, RTSS, Discord Overlay)
  • Other DLL-based mods

3. REFramework Not Loading

If REFramework isn’t loading, the menu key won’t work. Signs include:

  • No white version text in the corner when the game starts
  • No log file generated (re2_framework_log.txt)

Causes: Incorrect file placement, antivirus interference, or a recent game update breaking compatibility.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix the Insert Key

Solution 1: Change the REFramework Menu Key via Configuration File

This method is the most reliable way to fix the Insert key issue, bypassing hardware and software conflicts.

Steps:

  1. Close Your Game – Ensure it is fully shut down.
  2. Locate Game Directory – Navigate to your game’s root folder where the .exe and dinput8.dll are located. Example Steam path: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\[Your Game Folder]
  3. Open REFramework Config File – Look for:
    • re2_fw_config.txt (Resident Evil games)
    • re_framework_config.txt (Other RE Engine titles)
    Use a text editor like Notepad or Notepad++.
  4. Find the Menu Key Setting: REFrameworkConfig_MenuKey_V2=45 45 is the Virtual-Key Code for Insert.
  5. Replace with a New Key: Choose a safe key like:
KeyVK Code
Scroll Lock145
Home36
End35
F1112
Delete46
  1. Save & Relaunch Game – The REFramework menu will now open with your new key.

Note: For a full guide on REFramework configuration and key rebinding, see the official documentation.

Solution 2: Check for Mod or Software Conflicts

If the menu key worked previously, conflicts may be the culprit.

Steps:

  • ReShade Users: Open ReShade and check that Insert is not bound. Rebind ReShade to another key.
  • Disable Overlay Software: Close GeForce Experience, Discord Overlay, or RTSS while testing.
  • Isolate Other Mods: Temporarily remove all other mods, leaving only dinput8.dll and the reframework folder. If it works, reintroduce mods one by one to find the conflict.

Solution 3: Verify or Reinstall REFramework

If the menu does not load at all, the installation may be faulty.

Steps:

  1. Check File Placement: Only the dinput8.dll file and the reframework folder should be in the main game directory.
  2. Rename for Graphics API (if needed): Some games may require dxgi.dll or d3d12.dll as the primary loader instead of dinput8.dll. Only one DLL should exist in the folder.
  3. Check the Log File: Look for re2_framework_log.txt. If missing or empty, REFramework is not loading.
  4. Run as Administrator: Right-click the game .exe → Run as Administrator.
  5. Redownload Latest Version: Get the correct version for your game from the official REFramework download page. Delete old files before copying new ones.

Final Thoughts

The REFramework Insert key not working issue is often simple to resolve with the correct steps. Most commonly, users need to rebind the menu key, remove conflicting mods, or reinstall REFramework properly. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure full access to REFramework’s menu, Lua scripting tools, and in-game utilities for all your favorite RE Engine games.

Official REFramework Resources:

  • Related Article​
  • Helpfull Guids