If your keyboard isn't working at all, check these in order: For USB keyboards, unplug and replug the cable, try a different USB port, and test on another computer to rule out hardware failure. For Bluetooth keyboards, check the battery level, forget the device in your OS Bluetooth settings, and pair it again. For laptop keyboards, restart the computer first — many keyboard freezes are caused by driver crashes. On Windows, open Device Manager, expand Keyboards, right-click your keyboard, and choose Update driver or Uninstall device (then restart to reinstall). Check that Filter Keys and Sticky Keys are turned off in Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard, as these can make it seem like the keyboard isn't responding. If only specific keys don't work, the issue is likely physical — run an online keyboard test to identify which keys are failing.
USB Keyboard Not Working
USB keyboard issues are usually connection-related. Work through these steps to isolate the problem.
- Unplug and replug the USB cable.
- Try a different USB port — front-panel ports on desktops are sometimes disconnected internally.
- Try a different USB cable if the keyboard uses a detachable cable.
- Test the keyboard on another computer to rule out hardware failure.
Bluetooth Keyboard Not Working
Bluetooth keyboards have additional failure points beyond physical connections. Battery and pairing issues are the most common culprits.
- Check the battery level — even a 'low battery' warning can result in zero input on some models.
- Forget the device in your OS Bluetooth settings and re-pair it from scratch.
- Check for interference from other Bluetooth devices and move closer to your computer.
Laptop Keyboard Not Working
Laptop keyboards can stop working due to driver crashes, accessibility settings, or physical damage. Start with software fixes before assuming hardware failure.
- Restart the laptop — many keyboard freezes are caused by driver crashes.
- Check Filter Keys and Sticky Keys in Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard — these can make the keyboard seem unresponsive.
- Update the keyboard driver in Device Manager > Keyboards.
Specific Keys Not Working
When only certain keys fail, the issue is usually physical rather than software-related.
- Run an online keyboard test to identify exactly which keys fail.
- Could be physical damage, liquid damage, or a driver issue.
- If a cluster of keys fails, liquid damage is the most likely cause.