Peripherals

Mouse or keyboard not working in BIOS or boot menu

USB devices not responding at boot usually means a BIOS/UEFI legacy USB setting needs enabling, not that the devices are broken, since they typically work fine once Windows loads.

Difficulty
Moderate
Time
15–30 minutes
DIY cost
$0–$20
Pro cost
$60–$120

Symptoms

  • Keyboard/mouse doesn't respond on the BIOS or boot menu screen
  • Devices work fine once the operating system fully loads
  • Wireless keyboard/mouse specifically doesn't work at boot
  • Issue happens only when trying to enter BIOS or boot options

Likely causes

  • CommonUSB port used doesn't have legacy/BIOS support enabledSome USB ports, especially USB-C or certain rear ports, aren't initialized that early in boot unless a BIOS setting allows it.
  • CommonWireless keyboard/mouse relies on OS-level drivers not yet loaded at bootBluetooth and some wireless connections often aren't available until the operating system's drivers load.
  • Possible'Legacy USB Support' disabled in BIOS/UEFI settingsThis setting specifically controls whether USB devices function before the OS loads.
  • Less commonFaulty USB port on the motherboardA specific port might not function early in boot even if it works normally once Windows starts.

What to do

  1. Try a different USB port, especially one directly on the back of a desktop connected straight to the motherboard.
  2. If using a wireless keyboard/mouse, try a wired one temporarily to enter BIOS, since wireless devices are less reliable at that stage.
  3. Enter BIOS (usually by pressing a key like F2, F10, F12, or Del during startup, check your manufacturer) and look for a 'Legacy USB Support' or 'USB Configuration' setting, enabling it if disabled.
  4. Update the motherboard's BIOS/UEFI firmware from the manufacturer's website if a newer version is available.
  5. Check if the keyboard/mouse manufacturer has a wired mode or dongle, which sometimes work better at boot than a Bluetooth wireless connection.
  6. Test the mouse/keyboard on another computer's BIOS screen to confirm the device itself supports early boot use.
  7. If nothing works, keep a simple wired keyboard/mouse on hand specifically for BIOS access.

Tools and parts

  • Wired keyboard or mouse (as backup)
Basic wired keyboardSearch: “simple USB wired keyboard”

When to call a pro

If a wired keyboard also fails to respond in BIOS after enabling legacy USB support, a technician should check the motherboard's USB header or CMOS battery.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.