A non-working keyboard is frustrating, but most causes are straightforward to diagnose and fix. If your Keyboard doesn’t work in Windows 10, this article walks through the common reasons — from loose cables and dead batteries to drivers, settings, and malware — and gives clear step-by-step solutions so you can get typing again quickly.
You’ll learn how to test the keyboard, apply quick fixes, update or reinstall drivers, change Windows settings that block input, and identify when hardware replacement or professional help is needed.
Key Takeaway
The fastest reliable fix is to test the keyboard on another device and use Device Manager (devmgmt.msc) to reinstall the keyboard driver; if the hardware works elsewhere, undo recent Windows updates, disable Filter Keys and Fast Startup, and check USB/Bluetooth settings to restore full functionality.
Quick Fix Guide
Quick Fix Guide
| Reason for the Problem | Quick Solution |
|---|---|
| 1. Loose or disconnected cable | Reconnect or try a different USB port and check connection. |
| 2. Dead batteries (wireless keyboard) | Replace or recharge the batteries and re-pair the keyboard. |
| 3. Wrong keyboard layout/language | Set correct layout under Settings > Time & Language > Language. |
| 4. Num Lock / Fn or special keys | Toggle Num Lock/Fn Lock and check laptop-specific shortcuts. |
| 5. Filter Keys / Ease of Access enabled | Turn off Filter Keys in Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard. |
| 6. Corrupt/outdated keyboard driver | Reinstall driver in Device Manager (devmgmt.msc). |
| 7. USB power management disabling device | Disable power saving for USB in Device Manager and Power Options. |
| 8. Faulty USB port or hub | Plug keyboard directly into a known-good USB port. |
| 9. Bluetooth pairing issues | Remove and re-pair in Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices. |
| 10. Fast Startup causing initialization issues | Disable Turn on fast startup in Power Options. |
| 11. Recent Windows Update bug | Uninstall recent updates or roll back drivers in Windows Update or Device Manager. |
| 12. Background software conflict | Close or uninstall suspicious apps (esp. keyboard utilities). |
| 13. BIOS/UEFI settings | Enable USB legacy support or internal keyboard in BIOS/UEFI. |
| 14. Malware or keylogger | Run a full antivirus scan with Windows Security. |
| 15. Physical damage or dirt | Clean keyboard or replace it if keys are broken or liquid-damaged. |
Detailed Fixes for “tu mets ici le problème du 15 reasons why Keyboard doesn’t work in Windows 10 (and how to fix it)”
1. Loose or disconnected cable
Why it causes the problem:
A USB or PS/2 connector that’s partially plugged in won’t provide a reliable connection, so Windows can’t read keystrokes.
Step-by-step solution:
- Unplug the keyboard and inspect the connector for bent pins or debris.
- Reconnect firmly to a different USB port (prefer USB 2.0 ports for older keyboards).
- If using a PS/2 keyboard, reconnect while the PC is powered off; PS/2 ports are not hot-pluggable.
- Test the keyboard. If it works in another port, the original port may be faulty.
Tip: For intermittent issues, try a different USB cable if the keyboard has a detachable cable.
2. Dead batteries (wireless keyboard)
Why it causes the problem:
Low or dead batteries interrupt wireless transmission and pairing.
Step-by-step solution:
- Replace batteries with fresh ones or fully charge the internal battery.
- Turn the keyboard off and back on (power switch) to reset.
- Re-pair the device: Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices > Add Bluetooth or other device.
- Confirm the wireless receiver (dongle) is plugged into a working USB port.
Tip: Keep spare batteries handy or use rechargeable batteries for convenience.
3. Wrong keyboard layout or language
Why it causes the problem:
If Windows uses a different layout, keys produce unexpected characters (e.g., @ vs “). The keyboard still works but types wrong characters.
Step-by-step solution:
- Open Settings > Time & Language > Language.
- Under Preferred languages, select your language, click Options, and ensure the correct Keyboard layout is installed (e.g., US QWERTY).
- Remove incorrect layouts and use the language bar (Windows key + Space) to switch.
Tip: Use the on-screen keyboard (osk.exe) to verify expected characters before changes.
4. Num Lock / Fn or special keys
Why it causes the problem:
Toggled keys like Num Lock, Fn, or laptop-specific function lock can remap keys (numeric keypad, multimedia functions).
Step-by-step solution:
- Press Num Lock to toggle the numeric keypad.
- For laptops, press Fn + Esc or the Fn Lock key to toggle function key mode.
- Consult the laptop manual for model-specific hotkeys.
Tip: Indicator lights for Num Lock or Caps Lock show current state—use them to confirm.
5. Filter Keys / Ease of Access enabled
Why it causes the problem:
Filter Keys ignores brief or repeated keystrokes; if enabled accidentally, the keyboard seems unresponsive.
Step-by-step solution:
- Open Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
- Turn off Filter Keys, Toggle Keys, and other sticky or repeat modifiers.
- Alternatively, press and hold the right Shift key for 8 seconds to toggle Filter Keys off (if this shortcut is enabled).
Tip: If you can’t type into Settings, use the on-screen keyboard.
6. Corrupt or outdated keyboard driver
Why it causes the problem:
Drivers mediate communication between Windows and hardware—corrupt or incompatible drivers break input.
Step-by-step solution:
- Press Windows + R, type devmgmt.msc, and press Enter to open Device Manager.
- Expand Keyboards, right-click your keyboard device, and choose Uninstall device.
- Restart Windows — Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.
- If problems persist, right-click and choose Update driver > Search automatically for updated driver software.
Advanced: Download the manufacturer driver from the vendor’s website and use Update driver > Browse my computer.
7. USB power management disabling device
Why it causes the problem:
Windows may turn off USB devices to save power, which can disable keyboards intermittently.
Step-by-step solution:
- In Device Manager, expand Universal Serial Bus controllers, right-click each USB Root Hub or Generic USB Hub, then Properties.
- Go to Power Management and uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
- Also expand Keyboards, right-click your keyboard, Properties, and remove any power saving option if present.
- Change USB selective suspend: Control Panel > Power Options > Change plan settings > Change advanced power settings > USB settings > USB selective suspend setting — set to Disabled.
Tip: Reboot after changes.
8. Faulty USB port or hub
Why it causes the problem:
A damaged port or underpowered hub won’t deliver data or power properly.
Step-by-step solution:
- Unplug the keyboard from any hub and plug it directly into a rear motherboard USB port.
- Try different ports (front and back).
- If it works on another port, avoid the faulty one; if no ports work, check Device Manager for USB controller errors.
Tip: Try the keyboard on another PC to confirm if the device itself is faulty.
9. Bluetooth pairing issues
Why it causes the problem:
Bluetooth can lose pairing or conflict with drivers; the keyboard may refuse to connect.
Step-by-step solution:
- Open Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
- If listed, select the keyboard and click Remove device.
- Turn Bluetooth off and then on, restart the PC, and re-add the device using Add Bluetooth or other device.
- Ensure no other device is simultaneously connected and interfering.
Tip: Update Bluetooth drivers in Device Manager under Bluetooth.
10. Fast Startup causing initialization issues
Why it causes the problem:
Fast Startup doesn’t fully reinitialize hardware at boot, which can leave keyboards inactive after shutdown.
Step-by-step solution:
- Open Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.
- Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
- Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended) and click Save changes.
- Shut down and start the PC fresh.
Tip: Fast Startup is safe to disable; it slightly increases boot time but improves hardware initialization.
11. Recent Windows Update bug
Why it causes the problem:
Some Windows updates include driver or kernel changes that break certain keyboards.
Step-by-step solution:
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history > Uninstall updates.
- Uninstall the most recent update that correlates with the problem date and reboot.
- Alternatively, in Device Manager, right-click the keyboard or HID device and choose Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver if available.
Tip: Pause updates temporarily once stable drivers are found.
12. Background software conflict
Why it causes the problem:
Keyboard-filtering apps (macro utilities, gaming overlays, clipboard managers) can intercept keyboard input.
Step-by-step solution:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- End tasks for recently installed or suspicious programs (e.g., custom keyboard utilities).
- If uncertain, boot into Safe Mode: Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart, then choose Safe Mode; test keyboard there.
- Uninstall the offending software via Settings > Apps.
Tip: A clean boot (msconfig) helps identify conflicts without Safe Mode.
13. BIOS/UEFI settings
Why it causes the problem:
Disabled USB legacy support or keyboard settings in BIOS/UEFI can prevent the keyboard from working before or during Windows boot.
Step-by-step solution:
- Restart and enter BIOS/UEFI (common keys: F2, Delete, Esc; your PC vendor may differ).
- Look for options like USB Legacy Support / USB Keyboard Support and ensure they are Enabled.
- Save and exit BIOS/UEFI.
Caution: Do not change other settings unless you understand them.
14. Malware or keylogger
Why it causes the problem:
Malicious software can block input, redirect keystrokes, or cause erratic behavior.
Step-by-step solution:
- Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection and run a Full scan.
- Use Malicious Software Removal Tool or reputable third-party scanners (Malwarebytes).
- Remove detected threats, reboot, and verify keyboard functionality.
Tip: Avoid downloading unknown software and keep antivirus definitions up to date.
15. Physical damage, dirt, or liquid spill
Why it causes the problem:
Broken key switches, shorted circuits, or sticky residue from spills can disable keys or entire keyboards.
Step-by-step solution:
- Unplug and inspect the keyboard for visible damage.
- Use compressed air to blow debris from between keys.
- If spills occurred, allow the keyboard to dry fully (48–72 hours) after disconnecting and removing batteries.
- For mechanical keyboards, keycaps can be removed and deeper cleaned; for extensive damage, replace the keyboard.
Tip: For laptop keyboards, consult a service center — internal replacements can be delicate.
Maintenance and When to Seek Professional Help
Preventive steps:
- Keep drivers up to date via Device Manager or vendor tools.
- Use surge protectors and avoid liquid exposure.
- Periodically clean the keyboard and replace batteries as needed.
- Create a system restore point before major driver or BIOS updates.
When to call a technician:
- Laptop built-in keyboard physically damaged or liquid spilled.
- BIOS/UEFI changes needed beyond simple options.
- Repeated hardware failures across multiple peripherals suggest motherboard or power-subsystem issues.
Emergency workarounds:
- Use the on-screen keyboard (Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard or osk.exe).
- Connect an external USB keyboard if the laptop keyboard fails.
FAQ
Q: Can I use the keyboard in BIOS if Windows doesn’t detect it?
Yes — if the keyboard works in BIOS/UEFI, the issue is likely a Windows driver or OS configuration; if it does not work in BIOS, suspect hardware, power, or firmware settings.
Q: How can I quickly test whether the keyboard is dead or just Windows is misconfigured?
Plug the keyboard into another computer or boot from a Linux live USB — if it works elsewhere, Windows is the problem; if not, the keyboard likely has hardware failure.
Q: Will System Restore fix keyboard problems?
System Restore can revert configuration and driver changes that caused the issue; try a restore point dated before problems began via Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
Q: Is it safe to update BIOS to fix keyboard issues?
Updating BIOS can resolve hardware compatibility problems, but it carries risk. Only update using the vendor-provided tool and version, and follow instructions carefully; back up important data first.
Q: How do I prevent future keyboard failures?
Keep Windows and drivers updated, avoid installing unknown keyboard utilities, clean hardware regularly, and use a protective keyboard cover for spills.
Conclusion
Most keyboard problems in Windows 10 are caused by simple hardware connections, settings (like Filter Keys), drivers, or power management — all fixable with tests, driver reinstallation, and a few settings changes. If your Keyboard doesn’t work in Windows 10, follow the steps above to identify whether it’s a hardware issue, configuration error, or malware, and apply the targeted fixes to restore typing quickly.
