Laptops are great portable machines, but they can also cause anxiety when something happens to them, due to their all-in-one design. This is particularly the case if you’re experiencing problems when the laptop keyboard not working. There are several steps to get it functioning. Some are fairly simple, while others can be a little more complex.
In some cases, you can fix laptop keyboard not working issues, but it’s a matter of when and whether you’ll have to spend money on the work. The issue could be a hardware issue, but we have some advice to determine if it is not as significant.
Why Is My Laptop Keyboard Not Working? (Common Reasons)
If you’re wondering, “Why is my laptop keyboard not working?”, here are the most common causes:
1. Software or system glitches
Background apps or temporary system issues can cause keyboard keys not working unexpectedly.
2. Corrupted or outdated keyboard drivers
Faulty drivers are a major reason why keyboard not working on laptop occurs across Windows devices.
3. Dust, dirt, or blocked keys
Debris underneath the keys can cause certain keyboard keys not working or entire rows to malfunction.
4. Loose internal cable
A disconnected keyboard ribbon cable can lead to the laptop keyboard not working completely.
5. Wrong keyboard settings
Features like Filter Keys or incorrect language input can lead users to think the keyboard is not working on the laptop.
6. Liquid damage
Even a small spill can cause short circuits, leading to issues such as the keyboard not working on Laptop.
Also read: Mouse Not Working? Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
How to Fix Laptop Keyboard Not Working (Simple Fixes)
If your keyboard is not working on your laptop, several solutions are available for fixing this issue. First, determine whether the issue originates from hardware or software, and try to identify the reason why keyboard keys are not working.
Restart your computer
Restarting is often the first step when troubleshooting PC issues, providing quick and straightforward relief if your laptop keyboard not working as expected. What’s even more impressive about rebooting is its effectiveness, even when the keyboard is not working. You can use a touchpad and a mouse to work just as effectively for restarting.
Clean the keyboard
The problem with laptop keyboards is that they generally have very little space and movement, which means that the spaces within the keys are a lot smaller. Sometimes, hair, dust, and other obstructions can hinder the keyboard’s functionality. Clean your keyboard as thoroughly as you can. This should be sufficient to bring your keyboard back to working order. The trick is that laptop keyboards generally come with non-removable keys. Here are the most effective suggestions we can offer.
Before you begin, ensure that you turn off your laptop and disconnect it to avoid any risk. Flip the laptop upside down when you’ve done. Afterward, gently shake the laptop and press it against the bottom. You should be able to remove dust and dirt that has gotten beneath the keyboard. If you have brushes, you could also try using them between keyboard keys and see whether it helps remove anything.
Try using an external keyboard
It’s not a bad idea to plug in an extra keyboard to your computer to check if it functions. If the external keyboard does not work, the problem is software-related. It is essential to be concerned if the keyboard you purchased is working, however. It could indicate a more serious issue with your hardware, with your laptop keyboard not working. There’s no need to worry, there’s a possibility!
Update your keyboard drivers
Sometimes, software can malfunction or be damaged. This is also true for driver components, which are easy to upgrade if you’re experiencing issues with the keyboard on your laptop that isn’t functioning properly.
Uninstall the keyboard drivers
If the update of your driver isn’t working, try uninstalling it. Don’t worry. Your operating system will detect your keyboard and will automatically reinstall the drivers.
Check your keyboard layout settings
Are you still having trouble getting your keyboard to work? Let’s review the settings one more time. If your keyboard functions, however, it’s not using the same characters, you may be using a different keyboard layout. Let’s return to English (or the layout of your language, your keyboard utilizes).
Check for malware or viruses
Malware and viruses can harm your computer in various ways. It could be the reason behind your laptop’s keyboard not working. It’s not easy to remove your computer viruses or malware on your own. However, there is plenty of software to help you clean up your PC.
Enter the BIOS
We’ve explored all the essential choices for setting and software. It’s time to go deeper into the system’s more complex options. We’ll examine the BIOS and see whether the system can recognize the keyboard.
- Check if the keyboard works in BIOS
- Switch the laptop off and then back on again.
- Pressing the BIOS key during startup (usually F2 or Delete ).
- If the BIOS opens successfully and your keyboard works, it’s working.
If you can access your BIOS, software may be the cause of your keyboard-related issues. Otherwise, if you’re unable to access the BIOS, you’re likely experiencing a hardware issue. A keyboard should always work when used within Windows and BIOS environments.
Cool your laptop
In some cases, the batteries may cause the laptop keyboard not working, particularly if your laptop is too hot. This could be a cause why your laptop keyboard isn’t functioning. Additionally, batteries may expand as they age, which can cause an increase in pressure within the device and forcing the keyboard out of its position. You can remove it by plugging your computer directly into the power. Turn on your laptop and test the keyboard functions.
Also read: Why Is My MacBook Not Charging? 7 Common Reasons and Fixes
Tips to Prevent Future Keyboard Problems
Preventing keyboard issues is easier than fixing them. Here’s what you can do:
- Keep liquids far from your laptop
- Use a keyboard protector
- Clean your keyboard weekly
- Avoid pressing keys too hard
- Don’t eat directly above your laptop
- Update your system regularly
The small habits you build today can save you from major keyboard problems later.
Final word
If your laptop keyboard not working, it is not a cause for panic. This is because the issue may be due to simple problems such as dust accumulating in the keys or an incompatible third-party program, and a quick restart could help resolve the issue. It is essential to note that a laptop keyboard not working may also be a sign of a serious problem on your laptop, and you may need to seek the help of a professional. This article outlines the most efficient options to employ if the laptop keyboard not working as expected.
FAQs: Laptop Keyboard Not Working
Can a simple restart actually fix the keyboard?
It sounds too basic to be real, but yes—many temporary errors disappear after a quick reboot. Restarting forces the system to reload its drivers, which can bring the keyboard back from the dead in seconds.
Why are only some keys on my laptop not working?
When specific keys fail, dirt, moisture, or a loose internal connection is often the cause. A gentle cleaning or resetting the keyboard driver usually helps.
What should I do if my laptop keyboard works in BIOS but not in Windows?
That means the hardware is fine. The problem is inside Windows — usually drivers, settings, or a background app interfering with the keyboard.
When should I replace a laptop keyboard?
If cleaning, driver updates, and resets don’t help, or if multiple keys stop responding, replacement is usually the simplest and most reliable fix.
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