How to Solve Mouse Not Working on Windows 10 PC

In the digital dance of our daily lives, the mouse is the unsung hero that seamlessly navigates us through the virtual realms of Windows 10. However, what do you do when this trusty companion decides to take a hiatus, leaving you stranded in the depths of technological frustration? Fear not, for we are here to decipher the enigma of a non-working mouse on Windows 10.

Whether you're a seasoned tech enthusiast or a casual user, the vexation of a malfunctioning mouse is universal. Let's embark on a journey to understand the underlying reasons behind this issue and, more importantly, explore seven foolproof methods to resurrect your mouse from its digital slumber.

Why is the Mouse Not Working on Windows 10?

Before delving into the solutions, it's crucial to unravel the mystery of why your mouse has decided to play hide-and-seek with functionality. Windows 10, a sophisticated operating system, occasionally encounters hiccups that disrupt the seamless operation of external peripherals like the mouse.

Hardware and software anomalies can conspire to render your mouse incapacitated, leading to a cascade of inconvenience.

One common culprit is a corrupted or outdated mouse driver, a vital link between your hardware and Windows. Over time, these drivers may become obsolete or clash with system updates, resulting in a non-responsive mouse.

Hardware malfunctions, ranging from a loose USB cable to internal damage, can also throw a wrench into the gears of your mouse's smooth operation.

Additionally, power management settings and the mysterious world of BIOS or UEFI configurations might be conspiring against your peripheral device, causing it to cease functioning unexpectedly.

7 methods to fix mouse not working on Windows 10

Method 1: Reinstall Mouse Driver

Begin the resurrection process by addressing the potential culprit — the mouse driver.

Navigate to the Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button and selecting it from the menu.

Locate the 'Mice and other pointing devices' category, right-click on your mouse, and select 'Uninstall device.'

Once removed, restart your computer, and Windows will automatically reinstall the necessary driver.

This refresh often resolves conflicts or issues with outdated drivers.

Method 2: Fix Mouse Issues With the Hardware Troubleshooter

Windows 10 offers a handy Hardware Troubleshooter that can automatically identify and rectify hardware-related problems.

To access this tool, right-click the Start button, choose 'Settings,' and go to 'Update & Security.'

Click on 'Troubleshoot' in the left sidebar and then select 'Hardware and Devices.'

Follow the on-screen instructions, and let the troubleshooter work its magic in resolving any hardware conflicts that might be impeding your mouse's functionality.

Method 3: Turn Off Mouse Power Management

Sometimes, Windows 10's power management settings may inadvertently put your mouse to sleep.

To remedy this, right-click on the Start button, select 'Device Manager,' and locate the 'Mice and other pointing devices' category.

Right-click on your mouse, go to 'Properties,' navigate to the 'Power Management' tab, and uncheck the box that says 'Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.'

Apply the changes, restart your computer, and see if your mouse springs back to life.

Method 4: Re-plug the USB Cable or USB Receiver

A seemingly simple yet effective method involves physically reconnecting your mouse to the system.

Unplug the USB cable or the USB receiver, wait a few seconds, and then plug it back in. Windows 10 will often detect the reconnection and reinitialize the connection, resolving any temporary glitches that may have caused the mouse to cease functioning.

Method 5: Check for Hardware Damage

Inspect your mouse for any signs of physical damage. Loose cables, bent pins, or other visible issues could be the root cause of the problem.

If your mouse is wireless, ensure the batteries are charged or try replacing them. In case of wired mice, check for damaged cables.

If any issues are detected, consider repairing or replacing the mouse accordingly.

Method 6: Restart Laptop

In the fast-paced world of technology, sometimes a simple restart can work wonders. Save your work, shut down your laptop, wait a few seconds, and power it back up. This basic step can refresh system processes, potentially resolving any underlying issues causing your mouse to misbehave.

Method 7: Change BIOS or UEFI Settings

For the more advanced users, delving into the BIOS or UEFI settings might unveil a solution. Restart your computer and, during the boot-up process, press the designated key (usually Esc, Del, or F2) to access the BIOS or UEFI. Navigate to the 'Advanced' or 'Integrated Peripherals' section, locate 'USB Configuration,' and ensure that USB support is enabled.

Save the changes and exit the BIOS or UEFI. This method can sometimes override any conflicting configurations hindering the mouse's operation.

Conclusion: Navigating the Digital Maze with a Resurrected Mouse

In the intricate tapestry of Windows 10 troubleshooting, resolving a non-working mouse is a journey worth embarking on. From addressing driver conflicts to deciphering the cryptic realms of power management and BIOS configurations, these seven methods serve as your digital compass.

Remember, patience is key, and the right combination of these steps can breathe life back into your mouse, restoring order to your technological universe. As you navigate the path towards a fully functioning mouse, may your clicks be swift and your cursor dance gracefully across the digital canvas once more.