Guide to Fixing a Non-Working Mouse
A malfunctioning mouse can greatly impact productivity. This guide helps you quickly troubleshoot and fix mouse issues.
1. Update the Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause the mouse to stop functioning correctly. It's recommended to check and update your mouse driver to avoid such problems. We recommend using Driver Sentry to automatically detect and update drivers, saving time and preventing the risk of downloading or installing incorrect drivers.
Click the download button to get the latest version of Driver Sentry. After installation, open the software and click "Scan".
After the scan is complete, the list will display any missing or outdated drivers. Locate the mouse driver in the list and click the "Upgrade" button.
Once the update is complete, restart your computer to ensure the updated drivers are properly applied.
2. Check the Hardware Connection
Check Wired Mouse Connection:
Ensure the mouse's USB connector is securely plugged into the computer's USB port and that the connection is not loose.
If the mouse's cable is damaged or worn out, try replacing it with a new, high-quality USB cable or using a different USB port.
Check Wireless Mouse Connection:
If using a wireless mouse, ensure the USB receiver is properly inserted into the computer's USB port.
Check if the mouse battery is sufficiently charged, as low battery levels can cause the mouse to malfunction.
Change Port:
If the connection seems fine but the mouse still doesn't work, try plugging the mouse into another USB port to rule out a faulty port.
Check Other Devices:
If other peripherals (e.g., keyboard, printer) are connected, disconnect them to see if they are interfering with the mouse's performance. Test the mouse again after removing other devices.
3. Reconnect the Mouse
For a wired mouse, unplug the USB connector, wait a few minutes, then reconnect it.
For a wireless mouse, unplug the wireless receiver, wait a few minutes, and reconnect it.
If the mouse still doesn't work after reconnecting, try restarting the computer. This will allow the operating system to reload the drivers, which can help resolve temporary recognition issues.
After reconnecting the mouse, observe whether the cursor returns to normal. If so, this indicates that the hardware connection has been restored.
4. Check System Settings
Check Mouse Settings:
Open the "Control Panel" and select "Mouse".
In the "Buttons", "Pointer Options", and "Wheel" tabs, check if any settings have been accidentally changed. Make sure the settings match your preferences.
In "Pointer Options", ensure that the "Enhance pointer precision" option hasn't been inadvertently disabled.
Enable Touchpad (for laptops):
If you're using a laptop and the mouse is not working, check the touchpad settings. Press "Fn + F7" or "Fn + F9" (depending on your laptop model) to enable the touchpad and see if it affects the external mouse.
5. Update the Operating System
Open "Settings", then select "Update & Security".
Under "Windows Update", click "Check for Updates" to make sure your operating system has the latest updates installed.
If updates are available, follow the prompts to install them and restart the computer.
If specific updates or patches are available to fix mouse issues, install them and check if the mouse works after the update.
6. Check for Hardware Faults
Connect the mouse to another computer or device to see if it works properly. If the mouse doesn't function on another device, it may have a hardware failure.
If the mouse still doesn't work on other devices, it's advisable to replace the mouse to see if the issue is resolved.
For wireless mouse, check if the sensor is obstructed or dirty. Clean the sensor and try using the mouse again.
By following these steps, you can resolve most mouse issues. If the problem persists, the mouse may be faulty, or you may need professional support.
See also:
How to Fix Audio Services Not Responding
7 Methods to Fix Windows 10 Low Volume
