Why is my mouse not working?
Quick answer
The most common reasons a mouse stops working are dead or low batteries, a loose USB receiver or cable, a lost Bluetooth connection, a dirty sensor or shiny surface, or a driver problem after an update. Try a different USB port, fresh batteries and a restart before anything else.
A mouse that suddenly stops responding is frustrating, but the fix is usually simple. Start with the cheapest, quickest checks before changing any settings.
Quick checks by type
| Mouse type | Check first |
|---|---|
| Wired USB | Unplug and try another USB port, ideally directly on the computer rather than a hub |
| Wireless (USB receiver) | Replace batteries or charge it; make sure the tiny receiver is firmly plugged in and close to the mouse |
| Bluetooth | Turn Bluetooth off and on, then remove the mouse and pair it again |
| Laptop touchpad | Make sure it isn’t turned off with a function key (often F-keys with a touchpad icon) |
Other common causes
- Surface: Optical mice struggle on glass, mirrors and glossy desks. Try a mouse pad or a sheet of paper.
- Dirty sensor: Gently clean the sensor underneath with a dry cotton swab.
- Power switch: Many wireless mice have an on/off switch underneath.
- Interference: USB 3.0 ports and other wireless devices can interfere with receivers. A USB extension cable can help.
Fix driver problems (Windows)
- Use the keyboard: press the Windows key, type Device Manager and press Enter.
- Use Tab and arrow keys to open Mice and other pointing devices.
- Select your mouse, press Shift + F10, and choose Uninstall device.
- Restart. Windows reinstalls the driver automatically.
For Bluetooth mice, reinstalling the Bluetooth driver often fixes repeated disconnections. You can also check for driver updates.
Is the mouse itself broken?
Try it on another computer. If it doesn’t work there either, the mouse is likely faulty. If it does, the problem is your computer’s settings or ports. A sluggish cursor on a busy system may also point to a slow computer.
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