Touchpad not working on my laptop

When a touchpad stops responding, it is often switched off by accident, or Windows has a minor glitch. It is usually quick to fix.

Quick fixes to try first

• Plug in a USB mouse, if you have one, so you can click around while you fix it.
• Look at the top row of keys for one with a touchpad symbol, often a small rectangle with a line. Press it, or hold the Fn key and press it.
• Make sure your fingers are clean and dry, and that nothing is stuck to the pad.
• Restart the laptop.

Step by step

1. Open Settings by pressing the Windows key and I together.
2. Windows 11: choose Bluetooth & devices, then Touchpad. Windows 10: choose Devices, then Touchpad.
3. Make sure the Touchpad switch at the top is On.
4. Look for an option about leaving the touchpad on when a mouse is connected. Turn it on if you want it to keep working with a mouse plugged in.
5. If you have no mouse, press the Windows key, type Touchpad, press Enter and use the Tab and arrow keys to move to the switch, then press the spacebar.

If that did not work

• Open Settings, then Windows Update, and install any updates, then restart.
• Try the troubleshooter. Open Settings, then System, then Troubleshoot, then Other troubleshooters. Menu names can differ slightly between versions.
• Check for water spills or recent drops. Those can damage the pad.

Avoid downloading touchpad drivers from unfamiliar websites. If a driver is needed, we can help you get the right one from the laptop maker.

When to get more help

Stop and email us if the touchpad still does nothing after a restart, the cursor jumps about on its own, the pad clicks but does not move the cursor, or the pad or case looks raised. Tell us the make and model and whether a USB mouse works.