How Do I Fix Issues with My Keyboard, Trackpad, or Mouse?

  1. Overview
  2. Peripheral Devices and Accessories
  3. How Do I Fix Issues with My Keyboard, Trackpad, or Mouse?

For Windows Users

  1. Check Physical Connections (Wired Devices):

    • Ensure the device is securely plugged into a functional USB port.
    • Test with a different port if necessary.

  2. Reconnect Bluetooth Devices:

    • Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & Other Devices.
    • Remove the device by selecting it and clicking Remove Device.
    • Re-pair the device using the steps above.

  3. Restart Your Computer:

    • Restarting can resolve temporary issues with input devices.

  4. Update or Reinstall Drivers:

    • Open Device Manager by searching for it in the Start Menu.
    • Expand Keyboards or Mice and Other Pointing Devices.
    • Right-click the problematic device and select Update Driver.
    • If updating doesn’t work, select Uninstall Device, then restart your computer to reinstall drivers automatically.

  5. Test the Device on Another Computer:

    • Connect your keyboard, trackpad, or mouse to another computer to rule out hardware failure.

For Mac Users

  1. Check Physical Connections (Wired Devices):

    • Ensure the device is properly connected to a functional USB or Thunderbolt port.

  2. Reconnect Bluetooth Devices:

    • Go to System Settings > Bluetooth.
    • Click the i next to the device and select Forget This Device.
    • Re-pair the device using the steps above.

  3. Restart Your Mac:

    • Click the Apple Menu > Restart to refresh system settings.

  4. Reset SMC (System Management Controller) (For Persistent Issues):

    • For Intel Macs:
      • Shut down the Mac.
      • Hold Shift + Control + Option and the Power button for 10 seconds.
      • Release all keys, then turn the Mac back on.
    • For M1/M2 Macs: Simply restart your device as SMC reset is not applicable.

  5. Test the Device on Another Mac:

    • Connect your keyboard, trackpad, or mouse to another Mac to check for hardware issues.

  6. Use Built-in Accessibility Tools (If Needed):

    • Go to System Settings > Accessibility to enable Mouse Keys or Keyboard Accessibility as a temporary workaround.
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