Having a keyboard that suddenly stops working can be very frustrating. Here are some steps you can take to try and get your keyboard working again:
Troubleshoot Your Keyboard
Check Your Connections
The first thing to do is check all the connections on your keyboard. Make sure the cable is plugged in securely on both ends – into the keyboard itself and into the USB port on your computer. If it’s a wireless keyboard, check that the batteries are installed correctly and charged.
Try a Different USB Port
If your keyboard is plugged in via USB, try unplugging it and plugging it into a different USB port on your computer. Sometimes the USB port itself may stop working properly. Trying a different port will help determine if the issue is with the port or the keyboard itself.
Restart Your Computer
Restarting your computer will reset all the hardware and clear any software issues that could be preventing the keyboard from being recognized. Unplug the keyboard, restart the computer, then plug the keyboard back in once the computer has fully restarted.
Check for Driver Updates
For wired keyboards, make sure you have the latest keyboard driver installed. Go to the keyboard manufacturer’s website and check for any available driver or firmware updates. Download and install the latest update.
For wireless keyboards, check for updates to the wireless receiver/adapter software.
Try a Different Keyboard
If you have another wired keyboard available, switch it with the non-working keyboard to rule out a hardware issue with the keyboard itself. If the new keyboard works, then the issue lies with the original keyboard.
Troubleshoot Software Issues
Toggle Keyboard Settings
Open your computer’s settings/control panel and check if the keyboard has been accidentally disabled. Look for keyboard settings and make sure nothing is turned off.
You can also try toggling the keyboard language/region settings off and back on, or toggling any keyboard lighting/gaming features on and off.
Check for Conflicts
Open Device Manager and expand the Keyboard list. If you see any devices with yellow exclamation points, that indicates a driver conflict or issue. Right-click and select Update Driver Software to reinstall the driver.
Run Antivirus Scan
Sometimes malware or viruses can disable devices like keyboards. Run a full system antivirus scan to check for any infections. Antivirus software will be able to clean up any malware found.
Update BIOS
Outdated BIOS could be preventing proper keyboard function. Check your computer/motherboard manufacturer’s website for the latest BIOS update. Flash and update the BIOS to see if keyboard function is restored.
System Restore
If the keyboard was working fine until recently, do a System Restore to roll back your computer to an earlier restore point before the keyboard stopped working. The restore point should have the proper keyboard drivers and settings to restore function.
When All Else Fails, Replace the Keyboard
If you have exhausted all other troubleshooting steps and the keyboard still does not work, the keyboard may be internally damaged and need replacing. Consider getting a replacement keyboard if:
- It still does not work on another computer
- The same issue occurs with multiple keyboards
- You see any physical damage or corrosion
For a laptop, the replacement process can be complicated, so you may want to take it into a repair shop. For wired/wireless external keyboards, you can easily replace it with a new keyboard yourself.
Preventing Keyboard Issues
To avoid future keyboard problems:
- Be gentle – avoid spilling liquids and dropping your keyboard
- Clean it regularly – use compressed air to clear dust and debris
- Keep firmware and drivers updated
- Plug into rear USB ports – they are more reliable than front ports
- Consider using a mechanical keyboard – they are more durable than membrane keyboards
Taking good care of your keyboard and following these troubleshooting tips will help get your keyboard up and running again if it happens to stop working.
