How to Fix a Mouse Not Working

A non-responsive mouse is almost always a quick fix — power, connection, or a simple driver refresh.

Likely causes

• Flat batteries (wireless mouse)
• USB receiver disconnected or in wrong port
• Mouse driver conflict
• Dirty optical sensor
• System sleep state issue

Step-by-step fix

1. 1
   Check the basics first

   Is the mouse turned on? Is the USB receiver plugged in? Replace the batteries if wireless.

2. 2
   Unplug and replug the receiver

   Remove the USB receiver and plug it back into a different port. Avoid using a hub — plug directly into the computer.

3. 3
   Clean the optical sensor

   Use a cotton bud to clean the underside lens. A dirty sensor causes erratic or no movement.

4. 4
   Try a different surface

   Optical mice struggle on glass or very shiny surfaces. Use a mouse mat.

5. 5
   Update the mouse driver

   Device Manager → Mice and other pointing devices → right-click your mouse → Update driver.

6. 6
   Re-pair a Bluetooth mouse

   Remove the mouse from Bluetooth settings, turn it off and on, then pair again from scratch.

Frequently asked questions

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