If your mouse or keyboard is not working, there are a few steps you should take to try and troubleshoot the issue.
1. Check the connection: The first thing to do is make sure that the mouse or keyboard is properly connected to the computer. If you’re using a wired mouse or keyboard, check the cable for any damage and make sure it is securely plugged into both the mouse/keyboard and the computer. If you’re using a wireless mouse or keyboard, make sure the receiver is correctly plugged in and that both the mouse/keyboard and the receiver have power.
2. Power cycle: If checking the connection doesn’t solve the problem, power cycledevices may help resolve it. To power cycle a device, remove it from the power source (the wall or computer) and leave it off for at least 30 seconds before plugging it back in. This reset can be helpful in many cases.
3. Restart your computer: If the mouse or keyboard isn’t working, restarting your computer might fix the issue. Shut down the computer, unplug it from the wall, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in and turn it on.
4. Try a known-working mouse or keyboard: If the issue still isn’t solved, try plugging in a different mouse or keyboard. If the replacement works, then the original device is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
5. Update your drivers: Outdated drivers can sometimes cause hardware to not work properly. If the mouse or keyboard isn’t working, check if there are any driver updates available. You can usually find driver updates on the manufacturer’s website, or use an automated driver update tool like Driver Booster to take care of the job for you.
6. Replace the batteries: Replace the batteries in the mouse or keyboard if they are low-power or have been used for an extended period of time. If you have a wireless mouse or keyboard, you may need to re-sync the device to the receiver. Make sure the receiver has power and is connected to the computer properly.
7. Ensure compatibility: If you are using an older mouse or keyboard with a newer computer, you may need to make sure the device is compatible with the operating system. Some older devices may not work correctly with newer operating systems.
8. Check for interference: Wireless mice and keyboards can be susceptible to interference from other wireless devices like Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, cordless phones, and other similar devices. Try to keep the mouse and keyboard away from these sources of interference.
9. Perform a clean boot: To reduce the number of programs and services running at startup, you can perform a clean boot. To do this, open the System Configuration utility (msconfig.exe), go to the Services tab, and check the box next to “Hide all Microsoft services.” Then, click the “Disable all” button.
10. Reinstall the device: If nothing else works, you can try reinstalling the mouse or keyboard. To do this, open the Device Manager, go to the Universal Serial Bus controllers section, right-click on the device, and select Uninstall driver. Once the device is removed, restart the computer and the device should automatically reinstall the driver.
These steps should help you fix any issues you’re having with your mouse or keyboard. However, if none of these steps work, it’s likely that the device is faulty and needs to be replaced.