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10 Tech How-To

Fix USB Mouse and Keyboard Stop Working in Windows

Guide 10-6516 · Updated · Step by step

If your USB mouse and keyboard suddenly stop working in Windows, the fix usually involves checking the USB port, reinstalling the driver, or changing a power management setting. This article walks you through the most common causes and step-by-step solutions, from quick checks to more advanced fixes.

Why Do USB Mouse and Keyboard Stop Working?

USB input devices can fail for several reasons. The most common are:

  • Driver issues: Windows may have installed an incorrect or corrupted driver, or a recent update may have broken compatibility.
  • Power management: Windows can turn off USB ports to save power, especially on laptops, which disconnects the devices.
  • Hardware problems: A faulty cable, port, or the device itself may be the culprit.
  • BIOS/UEFI settings: Legacy USB support may be disabled, preventing the devices from working before Windows loads.
  • System conflicts: Recent software or driver installations can conflict with USB controllers.

Quick Checks Before You Start

Before diving into driver settings, try these simple steps—they often resolve the issue instantly:

  1. Restart your computer: A simple reboot can clear temporary glitches.
  2. Try a different USB port: Plug the mouse or keyboard into another port, preferably a USB 2.0 port if available.
  3. Use a different device: Test with another USB mouse or keyboard to see if the issue is with the device itself.
  4. Check for physical damage: Inspect cables and connectors for bends or breaks.
  5. Connect directly: Avoid USB hubs or extension cables—connect directly to the computer.

Update or Reinstall the USB Driver

If the quick checks don’t work, the driver is the next suspect. Here’s how to update or reinstall it:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Mice and other pointing devices and Keyboards.
  3. Right-click on your mouse or keyboard device and select Uninstall device.
  4. Restart your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.

If that doesn’t help, update the USB controller driver:

  1. In Device Manager, expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
  2. Right-click on each USB Root Hub and select Update driver.
  3. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

Disable USB Power Saving

Windows can suspend USB ports to save energy, which may cause devices to stop responding. To disable this:

  1. Open Device Manager (Windows + X → Device Manager).
  2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
  3. Right-click each USB Root Hub and select Properties.
  4. Go to the Power Management tab.
  5. Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
  6. Click OK and repeat for all USB Root Hubs.

Use Windows Troubleshooters

Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can automatically detect and fix issues:

  1. Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
  2. Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.
  3. Also run the Keyboard troubleshooter if available.

These tools will scan for problems and apply fixes automatically.

Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

If your mouse and keyboard don’t work even before Windows loads, the issue may be in the BIOS. Enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, Del, or Esc during startup) and look for USB Legacy Support or USB Keyboard/Mouse Support. Make sure it’s enabled.

Note: If you can’t use the keyboard to navigate BIOS, try a PS/2 keyboard or reset the BIOS by removing the CMOS battery (if you’re comfortable doing so).

Common Misconceptions

Many people think that a USB device that stops working is permanently broken. In most cases, it’s a software issue. Another misconception is that all USB ports are the same—some ports may not provide enough power for certain devices, especially on older computers.

When to Consider Hardware Replacement

If you’ve tried all the software fixes and the devices still don’t work, the hardware may be faulty. Try the mouse/keyboard on another computer. If it works there, the problem is with your system’s USB controller or motherboard. If it doesn’t work on any computer, it’s time to replace the device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my USB mouse and keyboard work in BIOS but not in Windows?

This usually indicates a driver issue in Windows. Uninstall the device drivers from Device Manager and let Windows reinstall them. Also, check for Windows updates that may have caused the problem.

Can a Windows update cause USB devices to stop working?

Yes, occasionally a Windows update can introduce driver conflicts. If the problem started after an update, try using System Restore to revert to a previous point, or check for a newer driver from the device manufacturer.

What if my USB ports don’t work at all?

If no USB devices work, the USB controller may be disabled in Device Manager. Right-click the USB controller and select Enable device. If that doesn’t work, try updating the chipset drivers from your motherboard manufacturer’s website.

Is it safe to disable USB power saving?

Yes, disabling power saving for USB ports is safe and won’t harm your system. It may slightly increase power consumption, but it prevents devices from being disconnected.

How do I fix a USB device that keeps disconnecting and reconnecting?

This is often caused by power management or a faulty cable. Disable USB power saving as described above, and try a different cable. Also, check if the USB port is loose or damaged.

Could a virus cause my mouse and keyboard to stop working?

It’s possible but rare. Malware can interfere with drivers. Run a full system scan with Windows Defender or a reputable antivirus program to rule this out.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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