1. Check USB Connections
The most common cause of mouse and keyboard issues is a loose or disconnected USB connection. Ensure that the USB cable connecting the mouse and keyboard to the PC is securely connected. If using a laptop, check that the ports are not damaged as this could result in connection problems.
2. Restart the Computer
A simple restart of the computer usually solves most issues with mice and keyboards. This is especially true if these devices are not responding when starting up the computer. By restarting the computer, you will ensure that the correct drivers are loaded and that the connection is reinitialled.
3. Update Drivers
Outdated drivers can cause all sorts of issues with mice and keyboards. To check if your drivers are up to date, open the Device Manager from the Control Panel. This will allow you to view all the hardware connected to your computer. If a driver is out of date or missing, it will be indicated here. To update a driver, right click on the device in question and select the ‘Update Driver Software’ option. Follow the prompts to install the latest version of the driver.
4. Use System Restore
If you recently installed a new driver or program that is causing issues with your mouse or keyboard, you can use System Restore to roll back changes made in the past few days. From the Start Menu, open System Properties and then select System Restore from the System Protection tab. Follow the prompt to choose a restore point and the system will be reverted to the chosen state.
5. Uninstall Problem Programs
If the issue occurs only when certain programs are being used, then the issue may be related to the program itself. To see if this is the case, try uninstalling the program and then reinstalling it. This should reset any settings that may be causing the issue.
6. Test Mouse and Keyboard
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you can test the mouse and keyboard independently. To do this, plug either device into another computer and see if it still has the same issue. If it does, then the issue lies with the device itself and not with the driver or the computer.
7. Reinstall Mouse and Keyboard
If the problem persists on both the original computer and a second computer, then it’s time to reinstall both the mouse and the keyboard. To do this, first uninstall the device from the original computer by going to the Device Manager. After uninstalling, restart the computer and plug in the mouse or keyboard. The computer should automatically detect the device and reinstall the driver.
8. Change the Batteries
If you are using a wireless mouse or keyboard, it is possible that the batteries are low. Replace the batteries with a fresh set and test the device again.
9. Clean the Mouse and Keyboard
Dust, dirt and debris can seriously affect the performance of a mouse or keyboard. Using a compressed air can, gently blow away any particles that may be stuck in the keys or on the surface of the mouse.
10. Reset the Mouse and Keyboard
If the issue is still present, you can try resetting the mouse and keyboard to their factory settings. To do this, follow the instructions provided in the user manual for your device.
If none of these steps are able to resolve the issue, then it is likely that there is a more serious underlying problem. If this is the case, contact the manufacturer of your mouse or keyboard as they may be able to provide additional help and advice.