How to Fix a Keyboard That Stopped Working

When Your Keyboard Stops Working

A keyboard that will not type can bring your work to a halt. Here are steps to get it working again.

Check the Basics First

For Wired Keyboards

• Check the cable is firmly plugged in
• Try a different USB port
• Try the keyboard on another computer if possible
• Check for visible damage to the cable

For Wireless Keyboards

• Check the batteries or charge level
• Make sure the wireless receiver is plugged in
• Try moving closer to the receiver
• Check the power switch is on

For Laptop Keyboards

• Make sure nothing is pressing on other keys
• Check for debris under the keys
• Try restarting the laptop

Quick Software Fixes

Restart Your Computer

• Use your mouse to click Start > Power > Restart
• Wait for the computer to fully restart
• Test the keyboard

If you cannot use the mouse either, hold the power button for 10 seconds to force restart.

Check for Filter Keys

Filter Keys can make the keyboard seem unresponsive:

• Open Settings (click Start, then the gear icon)
• Go to Accessibility (or Ease of Access)
• Click Keyboard
• Turn off Filter Keys
• Turn off Sticky Keys
• Turn off Toggle Keys

Update Keyboard Drivers

• Right-click the Start button
• Click Device Manager
• Expand Keyboards
• Right-click your keyboard
• Click Update driver
• Click Search automatically for drivers

Reinstall Keyboard Drivers

If updating did not help:

• In Device Manager, right-click your keyboard
• Click Uninstall device
• Click Uninstall to confirm
• Restart your computer
• Windows will reinstall the driver automatically

Using the On-Screen Keyboard

While troubleshooting, use the on-screen keyboard:

• Click Start
• Type on-screen keyboard (or find it in Accessibility)
• Click On-Screen Keyboard to open it
• Click letters with your mouse

Specific Key Problems

Some Keys Work, Others Do Not

• Clean under the affected keys
• The keyboard may need replacement
• Contact IT if it is a work keyboard

Keys Type Wrong Characters

• Check keyboard language in taskbar (bottom right)
• Click the language icon
• Make sure English (Australia) or your preferred language is selected

Number Keys Not Working

Check if Num Lock is on:

• Press Num Lock key
• A light on the keyboard should indicate status
• Try typing numbers again

Laptop-Specific Issues

Function Keys Not Working

On laptops, you may need to press Fn plus the function key:

• Fn + F1 instead of just F1
• Check if there is a Fn Lock feature

Keyboard Disabled by Windows

Some laptop keyboards can be disabled:

• Open Device Manager
• Expand Keyboards
• Right-click your keyboard
• If it says Enable device, click it

When to Contact IT

Contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au if:

• None of these fixes work
• Multiple keys are not working
• The keyboard was damaged (spill, drop)
• You need a replacement keyboard
• It is a laptop and the built-in keyboard does not work

Need Help?

For keyboard issues, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.