How to fix usb keyboard not recognized

Date:03:51 AM, Nov 06, 2024 Editor：lucky

fix-usb-keyboard-not-recognized

It's common for a USB keyboard to stop working when plugged into a computer. If the keyboard lights don't turn on and it's not being detected, here are some steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem effectively.

1. Check the Keyboard and USB Port

Before trying other solutions, first make sure the USB keyboard itself isn't faulty. If the keyboard is old or damaged, it might not be recognized by the computer. You can test it by connecting it to another computer to see if it works. If it doesn't work on another device either, the keyboard may need to be replaced.

Also, check the USB port itself. A loose or damaged port can prevent the keyboard from being detected. Try plugging the keyboard into a different USB port on your computer to see if that resolves the issue.

check-the-keyboard

2. Restart the Computer

Sometimes, minor system glitches or temporary driver issues can cause USB keyboards to stop being recognized. In these cases, restarting your computer can help. Shut down your computer, wait a minute, and then start it back up again. After it boots, plug in the USB keyboard to see if it's now recognized.

3. Update Keyboard Drivers

If the USB keyboard still isn't working, there could be an issue with the drivers. Using a tool like Driver Sentry can help by scanning all hardware drivers on your computer, detecting any outdated, missing, or conflicting drivers, and fixing them automatically. Here's how to use it:

Download

Install and open Driver Sentry and click the "Scan" option.

scan-computer-drivers

The software will identify outdated or damaged hardware drivers. Click "Repair Now" to update them with one click.

upgrade-computer-drivers

After updating, restart your computer to apply the new driver.

4. Check Power Management Settings

Sometimes, the power management settings might prevent USB devices from being recognized properly. You can check and adjust these settings as follows:

Press Win + X and select Device Manager. In Device Manager, locate and expand the Universal Serial Bus Controllers section.

check-power-management-settings

Right-click on USB Root Hub and select Properties. Under the Power Management tab, uncheck the option that says "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power".

power-management

5. Uninstall and Reinstall USB Devices

If the above steps don't work, try uninstalling and reinstalling the USB devices. Here's how:

Again, press Win + X and select Device Manager. In Device Manager, find and expand the Universal Serial Bus Controllers section.
Right-click on the USB device and select Uninstall Device. Follow any prompts to complete the uninstallation.

uninstall-and-reinstall-usb-devices

After uninstalling the device, restart your computer. The computer should automatically detect and reinstall the USB device.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue with your unrecognized USB keyboard and get back to normal use. If you encounter any additional driver-related problems, Driver Sentry can help you detect and fix them easily.