My Keyboard Isn’t Working! 7 Simple Fixes to Get You Typing Again

There is nothing quite as frustrating as sitting down to work, only to realize your keyboard has gone silent. Whether it’s a single stubborn key or the entire board that’s unresponsive, it brings your productivity to a screeching halt.

Before you rush out to buy a replacement or book an expensive repair appointment, take a deep breath. Most keyboard issues are software-related or caused by small, physical obstructions.

Here are 7 easy fixes to try when your keyboard stops working.

1. The "Turn It Off and On Again" Rule

It’s the golden rule of tech for a reason. Sometimes the connection between your keyboard and your computer’s operating system gets "confused."

• For Laptops: Perform a full restart.

• For Desktops: Unplug the keyboard, restart the computer, and plug it back in once you’re on the login screen.

2. Check the Battery (Wireless Keyboards)

If you’re using a Bluetooth or wireless keyboard, the most common culprit is a dead battery.

• Check the Power Switch: Ensure it didn't accidentally get toggled off.

• Swap Batteries: Even if the "low battery" light isn't on, try a fresh set of AA or AAA batteries.

• Charge It: if your keyboard is rechargeable, plug it in for 30 minutes and try again.

3. The "Crumbs and Dust" Cleanup

If only specific keys aren't working, you likely have debris trapped under the keycap.

• The Tilt Test: Turn your keyboard (or laptop) upside down and give it a gentle shake. You might be surprised at what falls out!

• Compressed Air: Use a can of compressed air to blow out dust from under the keys.

• Isopropyl Alcohol: Use a slightly damp (not dripping!) Q-tip with 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean around sticky keys.

4. Toggle "Filter Keys" (Windows Users)

Windows has an accessibility feature called Filter Keys designed to ignore brief or repeated keystrokes. If this is accidentally turned on, it might feel like your keyboard isn't working at all.

• Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.

• Look for Filter Keys and make sure it is toggled OFF.

5. Check Your USB Port

If you have a wired keyboard, the problem might not be the keyboard—it might be the port it's plugged into.

• Unplug the keyboard and try a different USB port (preferably one on the back of the computer if you're using a desktop).

• If you’re using a USB hub or docking station, try plugging the keyboard directly into the computer to rule out a faulty hub.

6. Update Your Keyboard Drivers

Sometimes the "driver" (the software that tells your computer how to talk to your keyboard) becomes outdated or corrupted.

• Windows: Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager. Find "Keyboards," right-click your device, and select Update driver.

• Mac: Keyboard updates are usually bundled with macOS updates. Go to System Settings > General > Software Update.

7. Change Your Keyboard Layout

Is your keyboard typing the "wrong" characters (like a # when you wanted a £)? Your layout might have accidentally switched.

• Windows: Press Windows Key + Spacebar to cycle through installed languages.

• Mac: Look at the top right of your menu bar for a flag icon or language code (like "US" or "UK") and ensure it’s correct.

Still Not Working? Try the "On-Screen Keyboard"

If you need to type an urgent email right now and these fixes haven't worked yet, you can use your mouse to type:

• Windows: Search for "On-Screen Keyboard."

• Mac: Go to System Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard and turn on Accessibility Keyboard.