A keyboard and mouse are essential for using a computer. When one or both stop responding, even simple tasks such as typing a message, opening a program, or browsing the internet can become difficult. The issue may appear suddenly after restarting the computer, connecting a new device, installing an update, or changing a USB port.
In many cases, you can resolve the problem with a few basic checks. This guide explains the common reasons a keyboard or mouse may stop working and provides practical steps to help restore normal operation.
Common Signs of Keyboard and Mouse Problems
You may experience one or more of the following issues:
- The keyboard does not respond when you press keys.
- The mouse pointer does not move across the screen.
- Mouse clicks do not open files or applications.
- Some keyboard keys work while others do not.
- A wireless keyboard or mouse disconnects frequently.
- The devices stop responding when the operating system starts.
- The keyboard or mouse works intermittently.
- The computer does not recognize a connected device.
Identifying the exact symptom can help you determine whether the problem is related to the device, connection, software, or computer itself.
Why Are the Keyboard and Mouse Not Working?
1. Loose or Faulty USB Connections
A wired keyboard or mouse may stop working if its USB connector is loose, the port is damaged, or the connection is unstable.
How to fix it:
- Disconnect the device and reconnect it securely.
- Try another USB port on the computer.
- If possible, test the device on another computer.
- Avoid using a USB hub during troubleshooting; connect the device directly to the computer.
If the device works in another port, the original port may be causing the problem.
2. Dead Batteries in Wireless Devices
Wireless keyboards and mice rely on batteries or rechargeable power. Low battery levels can cause delayed responses, connection drops, or complete failure.
How to fix it:
- Replace the batteries or fully recharge the device.
- Turn the device off and back on.
- Check that the USB wireless receiver is securely connected, if your device uses one.
- Follow the manufacturer's pairing instructions if the connection needs to be restored.
3. Bluetooth Connection Problems
Bluetooth keyboards and mice may stop responding if Bluetooth is disabled, pairing has been lost, or another connection issue occurs.
How to fix it:
- Check whether Bluetooth is enabled on your computer.
- Make sure the keyboard or mouse has sufficient battery power.
- Disconnect and pair the device again through your computer's Bluetooth settings.
- Temporarily disconnect other Bluetooth devices if interference or connection conflicts are suspected.
If both input devices are Bluetooth-based, you may need another way to navigate the computer while troubleshooting.
4. Outdated or Faulty Drivers
Device drivers help the operating system communicate with connected hardware. A driver problem may prevent a keyboard or mouse from functioning correctly.
How to fix it:
- Open the computer's device management utility if you can use another working input device.
- Expand the relevant sections, such as Keyboards, Mice and Other Pointing Devices, and Human Interface Devices.
- Look for warning symbols or devices that are not working properly.
- Check the operating system's update settings for available driver updates.
- If the issue began immediately after a driver update, consider rolling back the affected driver when that option is available.
Download drivers from the operating system provider or the computer or device manufacturer's official website. Avoid unknown driver-download websites.
5. The Computer Is Frozen
Sometimes the keyboard and mouse appear to have failed because the entire computer has stopped responding.
How to check:
- Look for a frozen screen or applications that no longer update.
- If available, check whether the computer responds to other actions, such as audio playback or network activity.
- Wait briefly to see whether the system recovers.
If the computer remains completely unresponsive, a restart may be necessary. Save any work first if possible. Holding the power button to force a shutdown should be a last resort because unsaved data may be lost.
6. USB Power Management Issues
Certain power-management settings can affect USB-connected devices, although this is not the cause of every keyboard or mouse failure.
How to fix it:
- Install available operating system updates.
- Check the computer manufacturer's recommended chipset and USB drivers.
- If the issue occurs repeatedly after sleep or wake, review the manufacturer's guidance for USB power-management settings.
Change power settings carefully, and avoid disabling multiple system devices without a clear reason.
7. Physical Damage or Device Failure
A damaged cable, worn-out switch, liquid spill, or faulty internal component can prevent a keyboard or mouse from working.
How to fix it:
- Inspect the cable and connector for visible damage.
- Try another compatible keyboard or mouse.
- Check whether the original device works on another computer.
- Replace the device if it consistently fails across multiple computers.
Do not continue using a device that has suffered a liquid spill until it has been safely inspected.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
If your keyboard or mouse has suddenly stopped working, follow these steps in order.
Step 1: Check the Connections
For wired devices, disconnect and reconnect the cables. Try different USB ports and connect the devices directly to the computer.
For wireless devices, check the batteries, power switch, receiver, or Bluetooth connection.
Step 2: Restart the Computer
A restart can resolve temporary system or device errors. If neither input device works, use the computer's available power controls carefully. A forced shutdown can result in lost unsaved work.
Step 3: Test Another Keyboard or Mouse
Connect a known-working device if one is available. This helps determine whether the issue is with the original accessory or the computer.
Step 4: Check Whether the Problem Occurs Before the Operating System Loads
If the keyboard does not work even in the computer's firmware setup screen, the issue may involve the device, USB connection, firmware settings, or hardware. Wireless devices may not work in every firmware screen, so test with a compatible wired keyboard if possible.
If the devices work before the operating system loads but stop responding afterward, software or driver issues become more likely.
Step 5: Check System Updates and Drivers
Once you regain control of the computer, install relevant operating system updates and check the device manufacturer's guidance for compatible drivers.
Step 6: Check for Recent Changes
Consider whether the problem started after a system update, new software installation, hardware change, or change to device settings. Reversing a recent change may help identify the cause.
How to Prevent Keyboard and Mouse Problems
A few simple habits can help reduce recurring issues:
- Keep cables and connectors in good condition.
- Replace wireless batteries before they become completely depleted.
- Keep USB receivers away from physical obstructions.
- Install updates from trusted sources.
- Protect devices from spills, dust, and excessive moisture.
- Disconnect accessories safely when troubleshooting.
- Use compatible devices and follow the manufacturer's setup instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are both my keyboard and mouse not working at the same time?
Possible causes include a frozen computer, a USB connection issue, a wireless receiver problem, a Bluetooth connection failure, or a device driver issue. Check whether the computer itself is responsive before troubleshooting the individual devices.
Why does my keyboard work in BIOS but not after the operating system starts?
If the keyboard works in the firmware setup screen but stops responding after the operating system loads, a system setting, driver, update, or software conflict may be responsible. Try available recovery options and check for compatible drivers.
Why is my wireless mouse not moving?
Check its power switch, battery level, USB receiver, Bluetooth pairing, and connection range. If possible, test the mouse on another computer to determine whether the problem follows the device.
Can a system update cause keyboard or mouse issues?
In some cases, a driver or compatibility issue following an update can affect connected devices. Check the operating system's update settings, the device manufacturer's guidance, and any available driver rollback options if the problem began immediately after an update.
What should I do if my keyboard and mouse do not work before the operating system starts?
Try another USB port and, if available, a compatible wired keyboard. If the devices still fail, check the computer manufacturer's firmware and hardware troubleshooting instructions or arrange a hardware inspection.
Final Thoughts
When a keyboard or mouse stops working, the cause may be as simple as a loose connection or depleted battery. In other cases, the issue may involve Bluetooth pairing, device drivers, system responsiveness, or faulty hardware.
Start with the simplest checks, test the devices separately when possible, and move on to software troubleshooting only after checking the connections. If the problem continues across multiple ports and compatible devices, further hardware or system diagnosis may be necessary.
Helpful tip: Before making system changes, identify whether you are using wired USB, wireless USB, or Bluetooth devices. Knowing which type is affected makes troubleshooting more straightforward.