There are many potential reasons why your keyboard may not be responding properly. Common causes of keyboard malfunction can range from simple issues such as dust or dirt accumulation to more complex technical difficulties. In such cases, the following steps may help you diagnose and resolve your keyboard troubles:
1) Check for foreign objects
The most common cause of keyboard issues is the presence of foreign objects in the keycaps, such as food scraps, crumbs, lint, and dust, which can prevent the keys from registering correctly. Try cleaning the keyboard by blowing lightly on the keys or using a vacuum to clean the debris away. Additionally, try taking out each individual keycap and wiping it with a damp cloth.
2) Check the USB / PS/2 connection
If your keyboard is connected via USB or PS/2, then make sure that the connection is secure and that no wires have come loose. If not, try unplugging and then reconnecting the cable. If that still doesn’t work, try plugging the cable into another USB port or a different device to check for faulty hardware or software.
3) Check the keyboard software
Sometimes, the keyboard software can become corrupted or outdated, resulting in improper operation. In this case, try uninstalling the corresponding driver from the Device Manager and then downloading and installing the latest version.
4) Run Keyboard troubleshooting tools
Your operating system (OS) may include specific diagnostic tools that can detect hardware issues and help you fix them. Try running the Keyboard Troubleshooter tool (available in Windows) or the built-in macOS Keyboard troubleshooting tool (available in macOS).
5) Replace or repair the keyboard
If all else fails, inspect the keyboard for any physical damage and consider replacing it altogether. If the keyboard is covered by a warranty, then contact the manufacturer and inquire about repair options. Alternatively, you can take the keyboard to a local repair shop and get it serviced.