How to Fix a Mouse That Stopped Working

When Your Mouse Stops Working

A mouse that will not work makes your computer nearly impossible to use. Here is how to fix it.

Check the Basics First

For Wired Mice

• Check the cable is plugged in firmly
• Try a different USB port
• Look for cable damage
• Try the mouse on another computer

For Wireless Mice

• Check the batteries or charge level
• Make sure the USB receiver is plugged in
• Check the power switch is on
• Try moving closer to the receiver
• Some mice have a button to re-pair with the receiver

For Bluetooth Mice

• Check Bluetooth is turned on
• Check mouse battery level
• Try re-pairing the mouse:

- Turn off the mouse - Remove it from Bluetooth settings - Turn on the mouse - Add it again in Bluetooth settings

Navigating Without a Mouse

While troubleshooting, use keyboard shortcuts:

• Tab: Move between items
• Enter: Select or click
• Arrow keys: Navigate menus
• Windows key: Open Start menu
• Alt + Tab: Switch between programs
• Alt + F4: Close programs

Quick Software Fixes

Restart Your Computer

Use keyboard shortcuts:

• Press Windows key
• Press Tab until you reach the power icon
• Press Enter
• Use arrows to select Restart
• Press Enter

Check Mouse Settings

• Press Windows key
• Type mouse settings and press Enter
• Check cursor speed is not set too slow
• Make sure the correct button is set as primary

Update Mouse Drivers

• Press Windows key
• Type Device Manager and press Enter
• Use Tab and arrows to expand Mice and other pointing devices
• Press the Application key (or Shift + F10) to right-click
• Select Update driver
• Select Search automatically for drivers

Reinstall Mouse Drivers

If updating did not work:

• In Device Manager, find your mouse
• Right-click (Application key) and select Uninstall device
• Confirm uninstall
• Restart your computer
• Windows will reinstall the driver

Cursor-Specific Problems

Cursor Disappeared

• Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete
• Press Tab to move to Task Manager
• Press Enter
• Look for the mouse—it may appear
• If it does, there may be a display driver issue

Try pressing Windows key + P and selecting a different display mode.

Cursor Jumps Around

This can be caused by:

• Touchpad interference (on laptops)
• Low mouse battery
• Dirty mouse sensor
• Wireless interference

For laptops, try disabling the touchpad while using an external mouse.

Cursor Moves But Will Not Click

• Check if click lock is enabled in mouse settings
• The mouse buttons may be faulty
• Try a different mouse to test

Touchpad Issues (Laptops)

Touchpad Not Working

• Look for a touchpad toggle key (often F7 or similar with a touchpad icon)
• Press Fn + the touchpad key
• Check touchpad settings are enabled

Disable Touchpad When Using External Mouse

• Open Settings
• Go to Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad
• Check Leave touchpad on when a mouse is connected

When to Contact IT

Contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au if:

• None of these fixes work
• The mouse is physically damaged
• You need a replacement mouse
• Multiple mice have the same problem
• Cursor issues persist after driver updates

Need Help?

For mouse problems, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.