Keyboard Navigation

The ability to use all features and functions of a website, application, or software using only the keyboard, without requiring a mouse or other pointing device. Keyboard navigation is essential for people who are blind and use screen readers, people with motor disabilities who cannot use a mouse, and power users who prefer keyboard shortcuts. Key requirements include visible focus indicators, a logical tab order through interactive elements, and the ability to activate all controls via keyboard. WCAG 2.1 Success Criterion 2.1.1 requires all functionality to be operable through a keyboard interface, and Section 508 explicitly mandates keyboard access for federal software.