How to Reverse Mouse Scrolling on Windows 10 and 11

Mouse scrolling is a common feature used to navigate through content on computers. However, some users prefer the scroll direction to be reversed to match their personal preference or previous experience. While Windows doesn't provide an option to reverse the mouse scrolling natively, you can achieve this customization by making changes to the Windows Registry. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to reverse mouse scrolling on Windows 10 and 11 using the Registry Editor.

Disclaimer: Editing the Windows Registry can be risky if not done correctly. It's essential to follow the instructions carefully and create a backup of your Registry before making any changes.

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor

To begin, press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. Type "regedit" (without quotes) and hit Enter. This action will open the Registry Editor.

Step 2: Navigate to the Mouse Settings

In the Registry Editor window, navigate to the following path:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\HID

Step 3: Find the Mouse Device

Expand the HID key and locate the folder corresponding to your mouse device. The folder names can vary based on the specific hardware connected to your computer. Look for folders with "VID" and "PID" values related to your mouse. You might need to browse through multiple folders to find the correct one.

Step 4: Modify the Mouse Settings

Within the mouse device folder, you should see a subfolder named "Device Parameters." Right-click on it and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value from the context menu. Name the new value "FlipFlopWheel" (without quotes).

Step 5: Set the Value

Double-click on the newly created "FlipFlopWheel" value to modify its properties. In the Value data field, enter "1" and click OK.

Step 6: Restart your computer

To apply the changes you made to the Registry, it's necessary to restart your computer. Save any open work and proceed to restart your system.

Step 7: Test the Mouse Scrolling

After your computer reboots, test the mouse scrolling functionality. You should notice that the scrolling direction is now reversed.

Conclusion

By following these steps and editing the Windows Registry, you can customize the mouse scrolling direction to suit your preference on Windows 10 and 11. Remember, modifying the Registry carries some risks, so proceed with caution and create a backup before making any changes. If you encounter any issues, you can revert the changes by deleting the "FlipFlopWheel" value from the Registry. Enjoy your personalized scrolling experience!

Note: It's important to mention that using third-party software or mouse customization utilities can offer a simpler and safer alternative to reverse mouse scrolling without editing the Registry. Consider exploring such options if you are uncomfortable with modifying the Registry.