Mouse and Keyboard Not Working? Complete Step-by-Step Guide 2026
Mouse and Keyboard Not Working? Complete Step-by-Step Guide 2026
If your computer mouse and keyboard are not working, it can be frustrating—especially when you can’t even log in or navigate your system. This common problem affects Windows 10, Windows 11, laptops, and desktop PCs and can be caused by hardware issues, driver errors, USB problems, or system settings.
In this complete troubleshooting guide, you’ll learn why your mouse and keyboard stopped working and how to fix the issue step by step—no technical skills required.
Table of Contents
Common Reasons Mouse and Keyboard Stop Working
Quick Checks Before Advanced Fixes
Fix Mouse and Keyboard Not Working on Windows
Fix USB Mouse and Keyboard Not Detected
Fix Wireless Mouse and Keyboard Issues
Fix Mouse and Keyboard Not Working at Startup
When to Replace Your Mouse or Keyboard
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Common Reasons Mouse and Keyboard Not Working
Your mouse or keyboard may stop working due to:
Faulty USB ports
Loose or damaged cables
Outdated or corrupted drivers
Windows update errors
Power issues (wireless devices)
BIOS or system configuration problems
Hardware failure
Understanding the cause makes troubleshooting faster and easier.
2. Quick Checks Before Advanced Fixes
Before trying complex solutions, start with these basic checks:
✅ Try Another USB Port
Plug your mouse or keyboard into a different USB port—preferably a rear port on desktop PCs.
✅ Restart Your Computer
A simple restart can fix temporary system or driver glitches.
✅ Test on Another Computer
If the mouse or keyboard doesn’t work on another PC, the device may be faulty.
3. Fix Mouse and Keyboard Not Working on Windows
Method 1: Check Device Manager
Press Windows + R
Type
devmgmt.mscand press EnterExpand Keyboards and Mice and other pointing devices
Look for:
Yellow warning icons
Disabled devices
Fix:
Right-click the device → Enable
Or select Uninstall device, then restart your PC
Method 2: Update or Reinstall Drivers
Outdated drivers are a major cause of mouse and keyboard problems.
Steps:
Open Device Manager
Right-click your mouse or keyboard
Click Update driver
Choose Search automatically for drivers
💡 Tip: If updating doesn’t work, uninstall the driver and restart Windows.
4. Fix USB Mouse and Keyboard Not Detected
Disable USB Power Saving
Windows may turn off USB devices to save power.
Steps:
Open Device Manager
Expand Universal Serial Bus Controllers
Right-click USB Root Hub
Select Properties → Power Management
Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device
Click OK and restart
5. Fix Wireless Mouse and Keyboard Issues
If you use a wireless mouse or keyboard, try the following:
Replace batteries with new ones
Ensure the USB receiver is firmly connected
Re-pair the device using the manufacturer’s instructions
Keep devices away from wireless interference (Wi-Fi routers, phones)
6. Fix Mouse and Keyboard Not Working at Startup
If your mouse or keyboard doesn’t work before Windows loads:
Check BIOS Settings
Restart your PC
Press F2, DEL, or ESC (varies by brand)
Look for USB Legacy Support
Make sure it is Enabled
Save changes and exit
⚠️ If devices don’t work in BIOS, it usually indicates a hardware issue.
7. When to Replace Your Mouse or Keyboard
You should consider replacing your device if:
It doesn’t work on any computer
The cable is damaged or frayed
Buttons or keys don’t respond
The device disconnects frequently
Affordable USB mice and keyboards are widely available and easy to replace.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did my mouse and keyboard suddenly stop working?
This usually happens due to driver issues, USB power settings, or Windows updates.
Can a virus cause mouse and keyboard problems?
Yes, malware can affect system drivers. Run a full antivirus scan.
How do I fix mouse and keyboard not working after Windows update?
Boot into Safe Mode, uninstall recent updates, and reinstall drivers.