My wireless mouse and keyboard are not working.

Created by Josh Hartle, Modified on Thu, 1 Jun, 2023 at 8:26 AM by Josh Hartle

A. If you're experiencing issues with a wireless mouse or keyboard, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the problem:

Check the Batteries: Ensure that the batteries in your wireless mouse or keyboard are inserted correctly and not depleted. Fresh batteries often solve common wireless mouse problems.
Power Switch: Some mouse devices have a power switch on the bottom to conserve battery life. Make sure the switch is set to the ON position. If your mouse has a power LED, it should be illuminated.
Receiver: If you're using a USB mouse, it requires a receiver that plugs into a port on your computer. Confirm that the receiver is properly installed. If it's plugged in and you've exhausted other troubleshooting steps, try connecting it to a different USB port. Occasionally, USB ports can become faulty. If you have a Bluetooth mouse, check your Bluetooth settings instead.
Surface Compatibility: Certain mouse units may not function correctly on highly reflective surfaces, especially glass tables. Consider using a mouse pad or a non-reflective surface that doesn't interfere with the mouse's operation. Note that this step only applies if the mouse has already been successfully connected.
Installation: It's important to read and follow the instructions that come with your wireless mouse or keyboard. Some devices require a synchronization process with your computer, often referred to as a "connect" process. This might involve pressing a button on the receiver or executing specific keyboard strokes to establish the connection. In some cases, the mouse might come with a CD, although the driver on it could be outdated.
Software Conflicts: If you previously used a different manufacturer's mouse that relied on proprietary software for control, conflicts may arise with your new mouse. Try uninstalling any previous mouse-related software and then reinstalling the drivers for your new mouse.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve common issues with your wireless mouse or keyboard.