Why the keyboard doesn't work and how to fix it

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Don't give up on your device until you've done a few simple things.

There are many reasons why the keyboard may not work. The most common of them are incorrect connection, discharged batteries, software failure, spilled liquid and, finally, breakdown of the internal components of the computer or the keyboard itself.

If the latter option is a reason to repair or replace the keyboard, then the rest of the problems can most often be solved on your own. Let's see what can be done.

General recommendations

If the keyboard gets wet, dry it and only then try to connect it to the computer. If soup or any other liquid that can clog the keys gets on the keys, clean the device.

If only the extra numeric keys don't work, press Num Lock (or Fn + Num Lock for some laptops). This button is responsible for the operation of the digital block and, perhaps, earlier you accidentally touched it. Sometimes it happens.

When all the keys do not work at all, the first step is to restart the computer. If this helps, then the problem is a trivial software failure. If unsuccessful, proceed to further instructions.

Why the wired keyboard doesn't work and how to fix it

1. Lack of power

If your keyboard has a power button, make sure it is turned on.

2. Disruption of the port

Disconnect all other USB devices from the computer and try connecting the keyboard through different ports. Usually a pair of ports at the very top of the rear panel are best suited for this. It is undesirable to plug the keyboard into ports that support USB 3.0 (blue) - regular USB 2.0 (black or white) will be enough.

It is also worth trying to connect a keyboard without an adapter, or, conversely, use it. The USB keyboard may not work when connected via a PS / 2 adapter. The same is possible when connecting older keyboards via the USB port.

3. Lost contact

Make sure the keyboard cable is fully inserted. It is enough to pull it out a couple of millimeters, and the contact will be broken. And this sometimes happens during cleaning or if there are animals in the house who like to play with wires.

If you have a PS / 2 keyboard, carefully inspect the connector and make sure the pins are not bent. This happens if installed incorrectly and results in malfunction. In this case, straighten the pins with tweezers and try connecting the keyboard again.

4. Disabled USB support in BIOS

The keyboard may not work due to a feature disabled in the BIOS if you have a new computer or have replaced an old device with a new one with a PS / 2 connector., go to the Advanced section and make sure Legacy USB Support or USB Keyboard Support is Enabled. If it is disabled, change the value and press F10 to save the settings and restart the computer.

5. Driver Problems

If you are on Windows, reinstall the keyboard driver in Device Manager. To get into it, go with the mouse to the "Start" → "Settings" → "Bluetooth and other devices" → "Device Manager". In the list that opens, find your keyboard, right-click on it and select "Remove device". After restarting the computer, the keyboard driver will be installed automatically.

6. Viruses

Also, Windows users will not hurt to check the system for malware. To do this, scan it with an antivirus. If it is not installed, download it from the Internet using a spare physical or on-screen keyboard.

Why the wireless keyboard doesn't work and how to fix it

1. No power

Check the batteries first. You may have inserted the batteries into the keyboard incorrectly, or they may have become unusable. If the keyboard is using the built-in battery, make sure it is charged.

2. Connection failure or interference

Refresh your wireless connection. To do this, turn off the keyboard and the receiver, if any, using the power buttons. Then disconnect it from your computer. Turn off other wireless devices if they are nearby. Reconnect the receiver to the computer - first turn it on and then the keyboard.

If the computer's built-in Bluetooth module is used for communication, make sure it is turned on and in discoverable mode.

The procedure for connecting wireless keyboards may differ depending on the model of your device. Just in case, check the official instructions in the documentation or on the manufacturer's website.

3. Other reasons

If you have Windows, reinstall the keyboard driver and check your system for viruses. Read more about this in the section on wired keyboards.

Why laptop keyboard doesn't work and how to fix it

Make sure the laptop battery is not drained. Sometimes, even if the device turns on, the keys may not work when the battery is low. Just in case, plug the laptop into an electrical outlet.

If you have Windows, reinstall the keyboard driver and check your system for viruses. See the section on wired keyboards for details.

If all else fails, test the keyboard by connecting it to another computer. If it doesn't work, then most likely it is broken. In this case, take it for repair or try to take it to the store under warranty.

The text of the article was last updated on March 1, 2021.