Mouse and keyboard problems in Windows 11 can be extremely frustrating because these are the two primary devices you rely on to control your computer. When either one suddenly stops working, basic tasks such as logging in, browsing, typing, or navigating your system become difficult or even impossible. Some users face issues where the mouse cursor freezes, while others notice the keyboard stops typing entirely. In more severe situations, both devices may become unresponsive at the same time, especially after Windows updates, driver failures, BIOS changes, or power-related issues.
Fortunately, this problem is often caused by software conflicts, power settings, corrupted drivers, faulty USB connections, Bluetooth pairing issues, or temporary system glitches rather than permanent hardware failure. In most cases, careful troubleshooting can restore functionality without requiring professional repair. Windows 11 includes several built-in tools and recovery options that can help diagnose and resolve these issues.
This complete guide explains all major methods to fix mouse and keyboard not working in Windows 11, whether you are using wired USB devices, Bluetooth peripherals, wireless receivers, or built-in laptop hardware.
Common Reasons Mouse and Keyboard Stop Working
There are several possible causes behind input device failures in Windows 11. The issue may be hardware-related, software-related, or caused by Windows configuration settings.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Corrupted or outdated device drivers
- Faulty USB ports
- Bluetooth connectivity problems
- Power-saving settings disabling USB devices
- Windows update bugs
- BIOS or UEFI misconfiguration
- Accessibility settings conflicts
- System file corruption
- Malware interference
- Physical hardware damage
Understanding these causes helps narrow down the right solution faster.
Restart Your Computer
One of the simplest and most effective solutions is restarting your PC. Temporary software glitches can interrupt communication between Windows and connected devices, especially after updates, sleep mode, or system crashes.
If your keyboard works:
- Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete
- Use the Tab key to navigate
- Select the power icon
- Choose Restart
If both devices are unresponsive:
- Hold the physical power button until the system shuts down
- Wait a few seconds
- Turn the PC back on
Restarting reloads drivers and resets temporary hardware communication issues.
Check Device Connections
Before assuming software problems, verify your hardware.
For wired devices:
- Unplug and reconnect the keyboard or mouse
- Try different USB ports
- Use rear motherboard USB ports if possible
- Inspect cables for visible damage
For wireless devices:
- Replace batteries
- Ensure the receiver is connected
- Re-pair Bluetooth devices
- Confirm the device is powered on
Sometimes, a loose connection or drained battery is the entire problem.
Test Devices on Another Computer
Testing your mouse or keyboard on another PC can quickly determine whether the hardware itself is defective.
- If the device works elsewhere, Windows 11 is likely the issue
- If the device fails on another system, replacement may be necessary
This simple step can save significant troubleshooting time.
Use On-Screen Keyboard
If your physical keyboard stops working, Windows 11 offers an On-Screen Keyboard for temporary access.
To enable it:
- At the login screen, click the Accessibility icon
- Select On-Screen Keyboard
Or use:
- Windows + Ctrl + O
This allows navigation while you troubleshoot hardware issues.
Boot Into Safe Mode
Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers and can help identify whether third-party software or drivers are causing the issue.
Steps:
- Hold Shift
- Click Restart
- Select:
Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart- Press 4 for Safe Mode
If your mouse or keyboard works in Safe Mode, the issue likely involves software conflicts or corrupted drivers.
Update Mouse and Keyboard Drivers
Driver corruption is one of the leading causes of input device failures.
To update drivers:
- Press Windows + X
- Open Device Manager
- Expand:
- Keyboards
- Mice and other pointing devices
- Right-click each device
- Select Update driver
- Choose Search automatically
Windows will search for newer compatible drivers.
Reinstall Device Drivers
If updating doesn’t work, reinstalling drivers may help.
Steps:
- Open Device Manager
- Right-click your device
- Choose Uninstall device
- Restart your computer
Windows will automatically reinstall fresh drivers during reboot.
Disable USB Power Saving
Windows may disable USB ports to conserve power, causing random keyboard or mouse failures.
To disable:
- Open Device Manager
- Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers
- Right-click each USB Root Hub
- Select Properties
- Go to Power Management
- Uncheck:
Allow the computer to turn off this device to save powerThis can stabilize device connectivity.
Turn Off Fast Startup
Fast Startup may prevent proper hardware initialization.
Steps:
- Open Control Panel
- Select Power Options
- Click Choose what the power buttons do
- Select Change settings currently unavailable
- Disable:
Turn on fast startupRestart your PC afterward.
Check Bluetooth Settings
If you use Bluetooth devices, pairing issues are common.
Troubleshooting tips:
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled
- Remove and reconnect the device
- Replace batteries
- Check range limitations
- Reduce nearby wireless interference
Re-pair process:
- Go to Settings
- Open Bluetooth & devices
- Remove device
- Add device again
Disable Filter Keys and Accessibility Features
Accessibility features can alter keyboard behavior unexpectedly.
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Go to Accessibility
- Select Keyboard
- Turn off:
- Filter Keys
- Sticky Keys
- Toggle Keys
This often restores normal typing response.
Run System File Checker
Corrupted Windows files can break hardware functionality.
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
sfc /scannowAfter completion, run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthThese tools repair damaged system files.
Update Windows 11
Windows updates may contain important driver and bug fixes.
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Go to Windows Update
- Click Check for updates
Install all pending updates and restart.
Roll Back Recent Updates
If your devices stopped working after an update:
- Open Settings
- Go to Windows Update
- Select Update history
- Choose Uninstall updates
Remove the latest update and test again.
Check BIOS or UEFI Settings
If your keyboard or mouse doesn’t work even during startup, BIOS settings may be responsible.
Access BIOS:
- Restart PC
- Press Del, F2, or manufacturer-specific key
Ensure:
- USB Legacy Support = Enabled
- USB Keyboard Support = Enabled
- USB Mouse Support = Enabled
Save and exit.
Perform a Clean Boot
Third-party software can interfere with device drivers.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R
- Type:
msconfig- Go to Services
- Hide Microsoft services
- Disable all
- Restart
If devices function properly afterward, a software conflict is likely.
Scan for Malware
Malicious software can disable system functions.
Use Windows Security:
- Virus & threat protection
- Full scan
Remove any detected threats.
Restore Your System
If the issue started recently, System Restore can revert changes.
Steps:
- Search Create a restore point
- Open System Restore
- Choose a restore point from before the issue began
This can reverse problematic drivers or updates.
Reset Windows 11
If no other solution works:
- Open Settings
- Go to Recovery
- Select Reset this PC
- Choose Keep my files
This reinstalls Windows while preserving personal files.
Laptop-Specific Fixes
Laptop users may also need to check:
- Function key locks
- Touchpad disable shortcuts
- Manufacturer keyboard software
- External keyboard conflicts
Many laptops include hardware shortcuts that accidentally disable input devices.
Prevent Future Keyboard and Mouse Problems
To reduce future issues:
- Keep Windows updated
- Update device drivers regularly
- Use reliable USB ports
- Replace batteries promptly
- Avoid cheap USB hubs
- Scan for malware
- Disable unnecessary startup apps
- Clean hardware regularly
Preventive maintenance improves long-term device stability.
Final Thoughts
Mouse and keyboard problems in Windows 11 can feel serious, but most issues are fixable through careful troubleshooting. Whether caused by faulty drivers, Bluetooth issues, USB power management, system corruption, or software conflicts, Windows 11 provides multiple tools to restore normal functionality.
Start with simple solutions like restarting, reconnecting devices, and checking batteries before progressing to advanced methods such as Safe Mode, driver reinstallation, BIOS adjustments, or system repair commands.
By following these steps, you can usually resolve mouse and keyboard issues quickly and restore full control of your Windows 11 system without expensive repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my mouse and keyboard stop working suddenly?
Common causes include driver corruption, faulty USB ports, Bluetooth issues, or recent Windows updates.
Can Windows updates cause keyboard or mouse problems?
Yes, some updates may introduce temporary compatibility issues.
How do I use my PC if my keyboard doesn’t work?
Use the On-Screen Keyboard from Accessibility settings.
Can BIOS settings disable USB devices?
Yes, disabled USB support in BIOS can prevent functionality.
Should I reset Windows if my devices stop working?
Only after trying all troubleshooting methods, since reset should be a last resort.
