Of all the hardware issues that you can possibly come across, it is particularly annoying when you find your keyboard not working. It doesn’t matter if you are a Windows 7 or Windows 10 user, a malfunctioning keyboard is frustrating for everyone. After all, a keyboard happens to be the primary input point to your computer. If your keyboard malfunctions, you won’t be able to execute even trivial tasks like logging into your Operating System. Moreover, you also won’t be able to enter your computer’s BIOS setup.
In case you are also dealing with keyboard-related problems like several other users, keep reading this article. We will discuss some fairly easy-to-apply steps that will help you recover and restore the keyboard’s functionality.
Standard Reasons Behind Keyboard Not Working
Following are some of the general reasons as a result of which, your keyboard might not work correctly. People mostly complain that none of the keys are working.
On the other hand, it might also happen that some of the keys aren’t working while others are responding fine. Have a look at the possible triggers:
- It is possible that the keyboard’s cable connection is faulty.
- Also, there might be issues with the keyboard’s power switch; this also applies to the wireless keyboards.
- Again, the problem can lie with the wireless keyboard batteries and wireless adapters.
- A defective USB hub is also equally responsible for the keyboard not working issue.
- Last but certainly not the least, outdated PC drivers can cause keyboard malfunctions and several other performance-related errors.
Now that you are aware of the possible reasons behind why a keyboard ceases to work properly, let’s talk about some effective solutions that you can try.
Brilliant Hacks To Fix A Windows Keyboard Not Working
The given methods are deceptively simple yet highly effective and will surely help you to resolve the keyboard problems. Therefore, follow the steps carefully:
Check The Connection
The first thing you should do is make sure that the keyboard is connected well and plugged in properly. First, disconnect the keyboard from the PC and then, reconnect it again with the same port. And in case you are using a USB keyboard, try connecting the keyboard to a different USB port.
Check The Wireless Keyboard Power Switch
Make sure that the power switch of the wireless keyboard is enabled. Often, users turn off this switch to save battery and then forget to turn it back on.
Check The Batteries And Adapters
Hopefully, you are not committing the rookie mistake of trying to recover a keyboard with dead batteries inside it. Therefore, check the batteries of the wireless keyboard and replace them if necessary. Also, make sure that the wireless receiver is properly connected and that nothing is blocking the signal.
Verify The USB Hub’s Status
If you are dealing with a malfunctioning USB keyboard, then it is highly likely that the USB hub is defective. If that is indeed the case, you need to repair or replace it at the earliest.
Update The PC Drivers
Now, this is an interesting process. If none of the above hardware fixes work, then you can give this alternative fix a try. But for this, you need another working keyboard to update the drivers of your computer. It is always recommended to have a spare keyboard in your workplace or home for emergencies. Once you are done with the method, connect the malfunctioning keyboard and see if it works.
You can either opt for a Windows update, or you can choose to update the PC drivers manually. For accomplishing the former, you need to press the Windows key, type Windows Update, and then press Enter. After that, just follow the instructions that appear on the computer screen. For a manual update, you need to visit the manufacturer’s website and download the compatible drivers.
Use Device Manager
You can turn to Windows’ built-in Device Manager for help. With this feature, you can identify and troubleshoot hardware issues on your keyboard.
The solutions given in this article should be enough to help you out of the problem. If you are still dealing with a keyboard that’s not working, you can try to test the accessory outside Windows by entering the CMOS setup, for example. In case nothing works, replacing the keyboard might be your last resort. You can also look for professional repair services within your budget.
