Symptoms
- Mouse cursor doesn't move at all when plugged in or paired
- Mouse light doesn't turn on
- Mouse works but is laggy or jumpy
- Mouse works on another computer but not this laptop
Likely causes
- CommonUSB port issue on the laptopA specific port failing is easy to overlook if you always use the same one.
- CommonDead or low batteries in a wireless mouseOne of the most common and easily overlooked causes.
- CommonBluetooth pairing dropped or never completedRelevant for Bluetooth mice rather than USB receiver-based ones.
- PossibleUSB receiver (for RF wireless mice) plugged into a bad port or lostThe small USB receiver is easy to lose or damage.
- PossibleDriver issue in Device ManagerOccasionally a mouse driver needs reinstalling after an update.
What to do
- Replace or recharge the batteries if it's a wireless mouse.
- Try a different USB port on the laptop for both the mouse and any USB receiver.
- For Bluetooth mice, remove the pairing and re-pair it from scratch in Bluetooth settings.
- Test the mouse on another computer to confirm it's not the mouse itself that's faulty.
- Check Device Manager for an error on the mouse/HID device and update or reinstall the driver.
- Clean the mouse's optical sensor on the underside if tracking is erratic rather than completely absent.
Tools and parts
- Spare batteries (if applicable)
Replacement external mouseSearch: “wired or wireless USB mouse”
When to call a pro
If the mouse works on another computer but not this laptop in any port, a technician can check the laptop's USB or Bluetooth hardware.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.