A wireless mouse offers convenience to its users compared to a wired mouse. However, the wireless device can malfunction and make it challenging to work on your computer. Fortunately, you can solve most of the performance glitches you may witness from a wireless mouse through your PC’s operating system core settings utility.
This article will show the various ways of fixing a wireless mouse that is not working.
Cause of A Mouse not Working
Several issues can result in the malfunctioning of your wireless mouse. Here are the key reasons:
- Loss of power or connection
- Hardware damage
- Outdated software
- Interference issues
- Operating system misconfigurations
- Dirty mouse
- Dead battery
1. Interference Issues
The distance between the two items can weaken the connection between your wireless mouse and the computer. If the wireless mouse is far from your computer, it will disrupt the relationship making the mouse not work.
Physical barriers are another cause of interference. Any impediment wireless band can deter the mouse signal from reaching the computer.
Interferences can also come from an overcrowded band. Bands are vulnerable to interference from nearby electronic gadgets like cellular phones, Bluetooth devices, and televisions. To confirm whether interference issues are the reason behind your wireless mouse not working, follow these steps:
Step 1: Place your computer on a flat surface with space for your mouse pad.
Step 2: Turn off all the wireless devices and the devices that work on the same band as your mouse.
Step 3: Plug the USB dongle into your computer.
Step 4: Switch on the computer.
Step 5: Turn the mouse on. Some wireless mouses have On & Off switches on the lower side to save battery power. Ensure the switch is on.
Step 6: Test if the mouse works. If it does, then change your computer location to avoid any interference.
Interference issues will demand that you change your entire computer setup for the mouse signal to transmit to your computer. If the mouse is still not working, there could be other reasons. Proceed to the next solution.
2. Connection Problems
An improperly connected dongle or a wrong mouse setup can cause your wireless mouse not to perform as expected. To fix this:
Step 1: Flip your mouse and switch it on.
Step 2: Remove the adapter from the computer.
Step 3: Switch off the computer.
Step 4: Install USB portals on your PC.
Step 5: Switch on the computer, then test if the mouse is working.
However, if your mouse fails to connect via the dongle, you may have to pair it with Bluetooth. You can do this by;
Step 1: Look for a Bluetooth pairing icon on your mouse, hold down the button and place the mouse close to the computer.
Step 2: Pair the devices
If you cannot find the button on your mouse;
Step 1: Open the Bluetooth menu.
Step 2: Click on the Add Bluetooth.
Step 3: Choose Bluetooth.
Step 4: Wait for the mouse to appear in the list, then press on the device pair.
If you are using MAC, go to system preference, then Bluetooth. The new devices will be listed, and press connects to pair your mouse.
3. Power and Charge
All wireless mice are rechargeable or use replaceable batteries. These batteries at times lose charge, and you may need to recharge or replace them. But before replacing them, you can try adjusting them. Sometimes your wireless mouse may fail to work because the batteries are not charged or are out of position.
This is particularly true if your wireless mouse has removable batteries. In such a case, open the battery compartment of your mouse and confirm if the batteries are in place. If readjusting the batteries doesn't work, you will have to replace them.
For the rechargeable wireless mouse, connect it to a power source and ensure that it charges by checking the indicator light on the mouse. Remember to turn the mouse off before placing the charger in the charging port. Allow the battery to charge to over 75% level before using it.
Take note of how long your mouse can work without necessitating a recharge. If you have to recharge it now and then, the problem could be that the rechargeable batteries are losing their ability to retain power; consider replacing them.
4. Computer Hardware Problems
Your computer's motherboard might not be connected to the computer tower, making the wireless mouse stop working. Ensure all your USB ports are working. Remember to connect the USB dongle via the USB ports; thus, your wireless mouse will not work if the ports are not working.
5. Disable the Fast Startup Option
Step 1: Press the Windows key plus x together on your window.
Step 2: Press on the “power option”.
Step 3: Click “Choose what the power button does“.
Step 4: Press “change settings that are currently unavailable”.
Step 5: Un-tick the box for “turn on fast startup” and click save changes.
Step 6: Restart your computer.
6. Use a Mousepad
Does your cursor jump on the screen as you move the mouse? The issue could be that the surface you are using is not conducive. You should place the mouse on a smooth and flat surface and consider using a mouse pad.
However, you should avoid glossy surfaces. If you have glossy surfaces, place a piece of paper or a book under the mouse.
7. Clean Your Mouse
Dirt and debris can find their way into your wireless mouse, negatively affecting its functionality. Confirm that the ball is clean and free of dirt. To properly clean it:
Step 1: Switch off the mouse and remove the batteries
Step 2: Detach the screws attached to the mouse, be careful not to lose them
Step 3: Pull apart the mouse
Step 4: Gently remove any dirt by cleaning all interior components of the mouse, including the mouse track wheel. To clean the parts, you can use a microfiber or cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Alcohol is highly preferred because it dries out quickly compared to water. Besides, alcohol will not lead to rusting if it comes into contact with metallic components.
Step 5: Allow the mouse to dry, then reassemble the mouse and switch it on
Step 6: Test to see if it is working
8. Reboot your Device
Switching your computer off and back on can fix different computer issues, including the mouse problem. When the operating system stops working or becomes unresponsive, the computer hardware may also stop working, leading to the mouse not working. Turn your computer off and on again and test the mouse.
9. Enable the Touchpad
You can disable the touchpad unknowingly by pressing the function key, leading to your mouse not working. To enable it:
Step 1: Press the Windows key, and type touchpad, then choose touchpad settings
Step 2: Confirm if the touchpad is activated. Press the shift plus tab at the same time if it is deactivated.
Step 3: Click the spacebar to turn the touchpad icon on.
Step 4: Test if it is working.
10. Try Using the Mouse on a Different Computer
If your mouse was working fine and it suddenly stopped working, the problem could be your computer hardware. The best way to validate this is to use a different PC. You have to install the mouse drivers on the second computer before trying out the mouse. Thus, this solution should be the last resort.
Here's how to do it;
Step 1: Connect your wireless mouse to the alternative computer.
Step 2: Give the computer time to detect the new hardware.
Step 3: Proceed and install the drivers as it will prompt you. You may also choose to install the drivers manually (without waiting for the prompt).
Step 4: Test the mouse on the new computer.
If your wireless mouse does not work on the new PC, the problem could be with your mouse. You may have to think about replacing it.
Conclusion
A Wireless mouse adds comfort whenever you are working on your PC or when you want to use your smart TV to browse. However, the same device can be a disappointment if it encounters any problems. Luckily, you can troubleshoot and solve most wireless mouse issues with the tips above.
