When a computer mouse and keyboard stops working, it can be a frustrating experience. Fortunately, there are some troubleshooting steps that can help to resolve the issue and get your input devices functioning properly again. Below is a step-by-step guide for what to do when your mouse and keyboard stops working.
Step 1: Check the USB Connections
The first thing to check when your mouse and/or keyboard stop working is the USB connections. Ensuring the USB connections are securely plugged in can often remedy the problem and get your input devices back to working order. Make sure all connections are firmly seated, and that no cables or wires have become loose. Additionally, if you’re using a USB hub, make sure it is receiving power and that any connected USB ports are functional.
Step 2: Verify Device Compatibility
It’s important to make sure your mouse and/or keyboard are compatible with your operating system. If they are not, they may simply not work. Open the Control Panel to view your system information and check the specifications and requirements of your devices against your system specs. If necessary, install drivers or update the firmware of your input devices to ensure suitable compatibility.
Step 3: Try a Different USB Port
If you have verified device compatibility and are continuing to experience problems, try plugging your mouse and/or keyboard into different USB ports. This will help you to determine if the issue is with one of the USB ports, or if it is related to something else.
Step 4: Clean the Device
If the device is still not working, the next step is to clean the device. Over time, dust and debris can build up and interfere with the functionality of a device. To clean the mouse, use a can of compressed air to blow dust and dirt out of crevices and joints. Ensure that no liquid is sprayed on the device itself. Also, any dirt on the surface of the mouse or keyboard can be cleaned with a damp cloth or paper towel.
Step 5: Troubleshoot the Computer
If basic cleaning does not fix the issue, it may be that the computer itself is having trouble recognizing the device or properly sending commands. In this case, run the troubleshooting wizard that came preinstalled on your computer, or download it from the manufacturer’s website. The wizard will help to identify potential issues and help you resolve them.
Step 6: Check Device Settings
Another potential cause of a non-working mouse and/or keyboard is incorrect settings. Go into the control panel and double check the device settings to make sure they are correct. For example, sometimes the factory settings can set the speed of the mouse too high, making it difficult to use. Similarly, the wrong keyboard layout may be selected, preventing the input of some characters.
Step 7: Test Another Device
If you have tried all of the above steps and are still having issues, it may be useful to try another mouse and/or keyboard as a test. If the new device works, you can assume the issue is with the original device, which will need to be replaced or fixed.
Step 8: Repair or Replace the Device
If your device is damaged or faulty, you may need to repair or replace it. Consult the product manual or contact the manufacturer for specific instructions on how to repair or replace your device. Many companies will offer a warranty on their devices, which may cover repairs or replacement in the event of a fault.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several steps one can take when their mouse and/or keyboard stops working. First, check the USB connections and verify device compatibility. If these steps don’t solve the issue, try plugging the device into different USB ports and cleaning the device. If this doesn’t work, troubleshoot the computer itself and check the device settings. If all else fails, test another device to isolate the problem, then repair or replace the device if necessary. Following these steps should get your mouse and keyboard working again in no time.