Mouse or Keyboard Not Working – Wired & Wireless Fixes

 First: Quick Checks

For Wired Mouse/Keyboard:

• Unplug and replug into a different USB port (try both USB 2.0 and 3.0).

• If using a USB hub, plug directly into the computer.

• Test the device on another computer to rule out hardware failure.

For Wireless Mouse/Keyboard:

• Replace the batteries.

• Make sure the dongle/receiver is plugged in securely.

• Turn the device off and on again.

• Press the connect/reset button on the device (if it has one).

• Move the device closer to the computer (especially for Bluetooth).

? 2. Restart the Computer

Sometimes a simple restart resets device drivers and restores connection.

? 3. Check Device Manager (if your keyboard or mouse still works at all)

1. Press Win + X, then choose Device Manager.

2. Look under:

   • Keyboards

   • Mice and other pointing devices

3. If you see a yellow triangle ⚠️:

   • Right-click > Update driver

   • Or try Uninstall device, then restart — Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.

? 4. USB Troubleshooter (Wired Devices)

1. Go to Settings > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.

2. Run the Keyboard or Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.

Or run this manually:

• Press Win + R, type msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic, hit Enter.

? 5. Bluetooth Troubleshooting (Wireless Bluetooth Devices)

1. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & Devices.

2. Make sure Bluetooth is turned ON.

3. If your device is listed but not working:

   • Remove the device.

   • Then click Add device and re-pair.

? 6. Try Another Mouse/Keyboard

If another one works, your device may be faulty. If both don’t work, it’s likely a USB, Bluetooth, or driver issue.

? 7. Nothing Working? Use On-Screen Keyboard Temporarily

If your keyboard isn’t working, do this:

1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Del, then select the on-screen keyboard icon (bottom right).

2. Or:

   • Press Win + U to open Ease of Access settings.

   • Turn on On-Screen Keyboard.

? BONUS TIP:

If you're using a HP laptop with touchpad problems, try:

• Fn + F6, F7, or F9 – Some HPs toggle the trackpad with these.

• Look for a small LED dot on the touchpad – double-tap it to enable/disable.