5 Ways To Fix Laptop Touchpad Not Working on Windows 10 [2023]

Laptops have become an integral part of our daily lives, and the touchpad is one of the primary input devices we rely on. However, like any other hardware component, touchpads can sometimes encounter issues. If you’re facing the frustrating problem of your laptop touchpad not working on Windows 10 in 2023, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll explore five effective solutions to get your touchpad up and running again.

Introduction

The touchpad is a convenient and essential component of laptops. It’s a versatile tool that allows you to navigate your computer effortlessly. Whether you’re browsing the internet, working on documents, or playing games, a functional touchpad is crucial for a seamless user experience.

However, touchpad issues are not uncommon, and they can occur for various reasons. You may encounter unresponsive touchpad problems, erratic cursor movement, or even a non-functional touchpad altogether. These issues can be frustrating, but the good news is that they are often solvable.

In this article, we will delve into the most effective methods to fix a non-working touchpad on Windows 10 in 2023. Whether you are a casual user or a tech-savvy individual, these solutions are designed to help you get your touchpad back to its optimal state.

1. Check the Touchpad’s Physical Condition

Before diving into software-related solutions, it’s essential to rule out any potential hardware problems. Here’s what you can do:

a. Clean the Touchpad

Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the touchpad’s surface, affecting its responsiveness. Use a microfiber cloth to gently clean the touchpad. Make sure your laptop is powered off before cleaning.

b. Function Key (Fn) Shortcut

Many laptops have a function key (Fn) that can enable or disable the touchpad. Look for the touchpad icon on your function keys (usually F7 or F8) and press the corresponding key with the Fn key. This can enable or disable the touchpad function. Sometimes, it gets accidentally disabled.

If the touchpad starts working after cleaning or re-enabling it, congratulations! If not, let’s move on to the next solution.

2. Update Touchpad Drivers

Outdated or corrupt touchpad drivers can lead to malfunctioning touchpads. To update your touchpad drivers:

a. Device Manager

1. Press Win + X and select “Device Manager” from the menu.
2. Expand the “Mice and other pointing devices” section.
3. Right-click on your touchpad device and select “Update driver.”

Follow the on-screen instructions to search for and install driver updates. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, consider reinstalling the touchpad drivers:

b. Reinstall Drivers

1. In the Device Manager, right-click on your touchpad and select “Uninstall device.”
2. Restart your laptop.
3. Windows will automatically reinstall the touchpad drivers.

After updating or reinstalling the drivers, test your touchpad’s functionality. If it’s still not working, don’t worry; we have more solutions to explore.

3. Check Touchpad Settings

Windows 10 offers a variety of touchpad settings that may affect its behavior. You can access these settings as follows:

1. Open the “Settings” app by pressing Win + I.
2. Go to “Devices” and select “Touchpad” on the left panel.

Here, you can configure various touchpad options, including sensitivity, gestures, and scrolling. Ensure that your settings are correctly configured for your preferred touchpad behavior. You might need to experiment with different settings to find what works best for you.

4. Perform a System Restore

If your touchpad recently stopped working after a software update or system change, a system restore might be the solution.

1. Type “Create a restore point” in the Windows search bar and press Enter.
2. In the System Properties window, click the “System Restore” button.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system to a point when your touchpad was working correctly.

System restore can undo recent system changes that may have caused the touchpad issue. Be aware that you’ll lose any changes made after the selected restore point.

5. Check for Windows Updates

Sometimes, Microsoft releases updates that include fixes for common hardware issues, including touchpad problems. To check for and install Windows updates:

1. Open the “Settings” app by pressing Win + I.
2. Go to “Update & Security.”
3. Select “Windows Update” and click “Check for updates.“

If updates are available, install them and restart your laptop. Check if the touchpad issue is resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

A non-working touchpad on Windows 10 can be frustrating, but it’s not a problem without a solution. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve most touchpad issues. Remember to start with the basics, such as cleaning the touchpad and checking for driver updates. If these solutions don’t work, explore further options like adjusting touchpad settings, performing a system restore, or installing Windows updates.

In most cases, one of these methods will help you regain control of your touchpad, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free computing experience. However, if the issue persists despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to seek professional support from your laptop’s manufacturer. They can provide specialized guidance to address any underlying hardware problems.

With these solutions at your disposal, you can keep your laptop’s touchpad in excellent working condition in 2023 and beyond. Happy computing!