Fix USB Driver Issues: Keyboard and Mouse Not Working on PC

How to Fix USB Driver Issues When No USB Device, Including Keyboard and Mouse, Is Working

Encountering USB issues where your devices, including your keyboard and mouse, are not functioning can be quite frustrating. Don't worry! This guide will walk you through several steps to troubleshoot and fix these USB driver issues.

Understanding the Problem

When your computer fails to recognize USB devices, it could be due to outdated or corrupted drivers, hardware issues, or incorrect settings. Symptoms include devices not appearing in File Explorer, error messages like "USB Device Not Recognized," and intermittent connectivity.

Steps to Fix USB Driver Issues

1. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve the issue. Disconnect and reconnect the USB devices after restarting.

2. Check Physical Connections

Ensure that the USB ports and devices are clean and free of debris. Use compressed air to clean the ports if necessary.

3. Update USB Drivers

1. Press Windows key + X and select Device Manager.

2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.

3. Right-click on each USB controller and select Update driver.

4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

4. Disable and Enable USB Controllers

1. In Device Manager, right-click on each USB controller and select Disable device.

2. Wait a few seconds, then right-click again and select Enable device.

5. Check Power Management Settings

1. In Device Manager, expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.

2. Right-click on each USB Root Hub and select Properties.

3. Go to the Power Management tab and uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.

6. Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.

2. Type msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic and press Enter.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to run the troubleshooter.

7. Check for Windows Updates

Ensure your operating system is up to date by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and installing any available updates.

8. Disable USB Selective Suspend

1. Press Windows key + R and type control.exe powercfg.cpl,,3.

2. In the Power Options window, click on Change plan settings next to your active power plan.

3. Click on Change advanced power settings.

4. Expand USB settings and USB selective suspend setting, then set it to Disabled.

9. Reinstall USB Controllers

1. In Device Manager, right-click on each USB controller and select Uninstall device.

2. Restart your computer, which will automatically reinstall the drivers.

Alternative Steps When USB Keyboard and Mouse Are Not Working

If you can't follow the above instructions because your keyboard and mouse are not working, try these alternative steps:

1. Use a Different USB Port

Try connecting your keyboard and mouse to different USB ports. This can sometimes resolve the issue.

2. Use a USB Hub

If you have a USB hub, connect your keyboard and mouse to the hub and then connect the hub to your computer.

3. Access Safe Mode

1. Turn off your computer completely.

2. Turn it on and press the power button to turn it off again immediately when you see the Windows logo. Repeat this step a few times.

3. On the third attempt, Windows will boot into the Recovery Environment.

4. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.

5. When your computer restarts, select Safe Mode with Networking from the list of options.

4. Use a PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse

If your computer has PS/2 ports (older, round keyboard/mouse ports), try connecting a PS/2 keyboard and mouse.

5. Reset BIOS to Default Settings

1. Turn off your computer and then turn it on.

2. Enter the BIOS setup by pressing the appropriate key (usually F2, F10, DEL, or ESC) during startup.

3. Find the option to Load Default Settings or Reset to Default and save the changes.

6. Use Another Device for Remote Access

If you have another computer or a smartphone, try using remote access software (like TeamViewer or Remote Desktop) to access your computer remotely and troubleshoot the issue.

7. External USB PCI Card

Installing an external USB PCI card can provide additional USB ports. If your motherboard's USB controllers are faulty, this can be a good workaround.

1. Purchase an external USB PCI card.

2. Power off your computer and open the case.

3. Install the card into an available PCI slot and secure it.

4. Boot up your computer and install any necessary drivers.

8. Wireless Keyboard and Mouse

A wireless keyboard and mouse that come with their own USB receiver might bypass the problematic USB ports on your computer.

1. Plug the USB receiver into a different port (preferably on the back of your computer).

2. Use the wireless keyboard and mouse to navigate and troubleshoot further.

9. On-Screen Keyboard (Windows Accessibility Feature)

The On-Screen Keyboard can be used to navigate without a physical keyboard.

1. Press Windows key + U to open the Ease of Access settings.

2. Select On-Screen Keyboard to enable it.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Simple Fixes: Many issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting steps.

• Improved Performance: Updated drivers and settings can enhance USB device performance.

• Cost-Effective: No additional hardware is required for most fixes.

Cons

• Time-Consuming: Some steps may take time to complete.

• Technical Knowledge: Some steps may require a basic understanding of computer settings.

If these methods and devices do not resolve the issue, it may be time to seek professional assistance. A technician can perform more in-depth diagnostics and repairs.