Touchpad doesn’t work in Windows 10 — this is a common but solvable issue. It can be caused by simple settings (touchpad accidentally turned off), driver problems, Windows updates, BIOS settings, or hardware faults. In this article you’ll learn 12 likely causes and concrete fixes, from quick toggles to advanced repairs, so you can restore touchpad functionality step by step.
Key Takeaway
Most touchpad problems are caused by software settings or drivers — check touchpad settings and Device Manager first, then update or reinstall the correct OEM driver; only pursue BIOS or hardware fixes if software steps don’t help.
Quick Fix Guide
Quick Fix Guide
| Reason for the Problem | Quick Solution |
|---|---|
| Touchpad turned off in Settings | Enable touchpad in Settings > Devices > Touchpad. |
| Hardware (Fn) key or physical switch disabled it | Toggle the touchpad with the laptop’s Fn or hardware switch. |
| External mouse disables touchpad | Turn off “Leave touchpad on when a mouse is connected” in Settings > Devices > Touchpad. |
| Outdated or corrupted touchpad driver | Update or reinstall driver via Device Manager. |
| Wrong generic driver installed | Install the OEM Synaptics/ELAN/Precision driver from the laptop maker. |
| Problem after Windows Update | Roll back the driver or uninstall the update in Settings > Update & Security. |
| Touchpad disabled in BIOS/UEFI | Enable the touchpad in BIOS/UEFI settings (look for Internal Pointing Device). |
| Device disabled in Device Manager | Enable the touchpad device in Device Manager > Mice and other pointing devices. |
| Registry or policy blocks touchpad | Search registry for touchpad disable keys (backup first) and set to enable. |
| Corrupt system files | Run sfc /scannow and DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. |
| Hardware failure (cable or sensor) | Test with an external mouse and consult repair/inspection for hardware. |
| Third-party utilities or malware interference | Remove conflicting utilities and scan for malware. |
Detailed Fixes for “Touchpad doesn’t work in Windows 10”
1. Touchpad turned off in Settings
Why this causes the problem
Windows 10 includes a software toggle that disables the touchpad. A quick slip or accidental change can turn it off.
Step-by-step fix
- Open Settings (press Windows key + I).
- Go to Devices > Touchpad.
- Ensure Touchpad is On.
- If you see sliders for sensitivity or gestures, set to defaults to test.
Note: On some laptops the option appears only if Windows detects a precision touchpad. If missing, check Device Manager.
2. Hardware (Fn) key or physical switch disabled it
Why this causes the problem
Many laptops have an Fn function key (e.g., Fn + F7) or a physical slider to disable the touchpad quickly.
Step-by-step fix
- Look for a key with a touchpad icon on the function keys row.
- Press the key alone or with Fn (e.g., Fn + F7) to toggle the touchpad.
- If there’s a physical switch, slide it to “on”.
Tip: Some models require pressing Fn once (Fn Lock) — check your laptop manual.
3. External mouse disables touchpad
Why this causes the problem
Windows or OEM software sometimes disables the internal touchpad when an external USB or Bluetooth mouse is connected.
Step-by-step fix
- Go to Settings > Devices > Touchpad.
- Toggle off any option like Leave touchpad on when a mouse is connected or similar.
- If you’re using third-party mouse software (Logitech, Razer), open that utility and check for an option that disables the touchpad when a mouse is connected.
Tip: Unplug the external mouse and test the touchpad to confirm.
4. Outdated or corrupted touchpad driver
Why this causes the problem
Drivers control hardware. Corrupted or incompatible drivers can stop the touchpad from working.
Step-by-step fix
- Right-click Start and open Device Manager.
- Expand Mice and other pointing devices. Look for entries like Synaptics, ELAN, HID-compliant mouse, or PS/2 Compatible Mouse.
- Right-click the touchpad device and choose Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.
- If no update found, choose Uninstall device, check Delete the driver software for this device if available, then restart Windows — Windows will attempt to reinstall a driver automatically.
Tip: If Windows installs a generic driver, install the OEM driver from your laptop manufacturer’s support site instead.
5. Wrong generic driver installed
Why this causes the problem
Windows sometimes uses a generic PS/2 driver that lacks full touchpad features and may not function correctly for gestures.
Step-by-step fix
- Visit the laptop maker’s support site and download the touchpad driver (Synaptics, ELAN, or Precision Touchpad) for your exact model and Windows 10 version.
- In Device Manager, right-click the touchpad device and choose Update driver > Browse my computer for driver software and point to the downloaded driver folder, or run the installer from the manufacturer.
- Restart after installation.
Note: Use the exact model number — drivers for different models may not work.
6. Problem after Windows Update
Why this causes the problem
A recent Windows update can replace or misconfigure drivers.
Step-by-step fix
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
- If you suspect a recent update, go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and use Go back to the previous version of Windows 10 only if available (use with caution).
- Alternatively, open Device Manager, right-click the touchpad device, choose Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver (if enabled).
- If roll back not available, uninstall the device (see earlier) and install OEM driver.
Tip: Pause updates temporarily while you confirm the fix: Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Advanced options > Pause updates.
7. Touchpad disabled in BIOS/UEFI
Why this causes the problem
BIOS/UEFI settings can disable the internal pointing device at a hardware level.
Step-by-step fix
- Reboot and enter BIOS/UEFI (commonly F2, Delete, Esc, or manufacturer-specific).
- Look for Internal Pointing Device, Touchpad, or Internal Pointing — often under Advanced, Peripherals, or Integrated Devices.
- Change setting to Enabled, save changes, and exit.
Note: Consult your laptop manual for exact BIOS key and menu location.
8. Device disabled in Device Manager
Why this causes the problem
The device might be manually disabled or flagged with an error.
Step-by-step fix
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand Mice and other pointing devices (also check Human Interface Devices).
- If device shows a down-arrow icon, right-click and choose Enable device.
- If it shows an error, open Properties and check Device status for code and follow recommended steps.
Tip: Use Action > Scan for hardware changes after enabling.
9. Registry or policy blocks touchpad
Why this causes the problem
Some drivers or administrators set registry values or group policies that disable internal pointing devices.
Step-by-step fix
- Press Windows key + R, type regedit, press Enter (backup registry first: File > Export).
- Search (Ctrl+F) for terms like Disable and Pointing or vendor-specific keys (e.g., Synaptics, ELAN).
- If you find a key such as DisableInternalPointingDevice set to 1, double-click and set to 0, then restart.
- If in a managed (work) PC, check gpedit.msc under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates for device-install policies.
Warning: Editing the registry can damage Windows if done incorrectly — back up first.
10. Corrupt system files
Why this causes the problem
Damaged system files can prevent drivers and services from working properly.
Step-by-step fix
- Open Command Prompt (Admin): right-click Start > Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
- Run: sfc /scannow and wait for completion.
- If issues persist, run: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth then repeat sfc /scannow.
- Restart and test the touchpad.
Tip: These commands can take 20–60 minutes depending on system state.
11. Hardware failure (cable, sensor)
Why this causes the problem
Physical damage or a loose ribbon cable disconnects the touchpad from the motherboard.
Step-by-step fix
- Test with an external USB mouse — if it works, OS is fine but touchpad hardware may be faulty.
- If comfortable opening the laptop, power off, remove battery (if possible), open the back panel, and check the touchpad ribbon cable connection. Re-seat gently.
- If not comfortable, consult professional repair or the manufacturer.
Note: Replacing a touchpad often requires model-specific parts and skill.
12. Third-party utilities or malware interference
Why this causes the problem
Third-party mouse/touchpad utilities can conflict with Windows drivers; malware can also affect device behavior.
Step-by-step fix
- Uninstall nonessential mouse/touchpad utilities in Settings > Apps.
- Boot into Safe Mode (hold Shift and choose Restart > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart then pick Safe Mode) and test the touchpad.
- Run a full antivirus scan (Windows Security or a reputable AV) and remove threats.
- If touchpad works in Safe Mode, remove recently installed apps and drivers until you find the conflict.
Maintenance and When to Seek Repair
Preventive maintenance
- Keep the laptop updated but create a restore point before major driver or Windows updates (Control Panel > Recovery > Create a restore point).
- Back up drivers with tools or copy OEM installers to a safe folder.
- Clean the touching surface and avoid liquids that can damage the sensor.
When to seek professional repair
- If the touchpad is unresponsive after software fixes and the case shows damage or liquid exposure, seek a trained technician.
- If ribbon cables are damaged or the touchpad needs replacement, professional parts and tools are often required.
FAQ
How can I test whether it’s a hardware or software issue?
Boot into Safe Mode — if touchpad works there, it’s likely software; if not, it’s probably hardware. Also try an external mouse: if that works but the touchpad doesn’t after software checks, suspect hardware.
Can I restore touchpad gestures after reinstalling Windows?
Yes — install the OEM touchpad driver (Synaptics/ELAN/Precision). Gestures are typically re-enabled only with the manufacturer driver, not the generic PS/2 driver.
Is it safe to uninstall the touchpad driver and let Windows reinstall it?
Yes — in most cases, Windows will install a compatible driver automatically. For full functionality, however, install the OEM driver afterward.
How do I create a system restore point before changing drivers?
Open Control Panel > System > System Protection, select the system drive, click Create, give it a name, and confirm. This lets you roll back if a driver change causes issues.
Can a BIOS update fix touchpad problems?
Sometimes — if the touchpad firmware or BIOS-level handling was buggy, a BIOS/UEFI update from the laptop maker may help. Only update BIOS if manufacturer specifically lists a fix for input devices and follow their instructions carefully.
Conclusion
Most cases of Touchpad doesn’t work in Windows 10 are resolved by checking the Settings toggle, function keys, and drivers, then moving to BIOS, system file checks, or hardware inspection if needed. Start with the simplest fixes and progress methodically to save time and avoid unnecessary repairs.
