[Repair Guide] How to Fix the Dell Laptop Keypad Not Working

[Repair Guide] How to Fix the Dell Laptop Keypad Not Working

/ Cris Mamon

Dell laptops have gained a reputation for their attractive design and top-notch performance, making them popular among users. Despite their popularity, users may encounter issues with the keypad on their Dell laptops. The good news is that this problem can often be resolved with some simple steps.

This article will provide a comprehensive guide to help you troubleshoot and fix your Dell laptop’s keypad not working issue. Whether the problem is caused by software, hardware, or other factors, this guide will help you get back to using your computer with ease.

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Common Reason for Dell Laptop Keypad Issues

dell keypad not working

Your Dell laptop keyboard may stop working due to several reasons. The most common causes are:

  • Software Issues: other software installed on the laptop may cause the keypad to stop working. This can include conflicts with other software, outdated software, or malware infections.
  • Hardware Faults: physical damage or malfunctioning components in the keypad can cause it to stop working. This can include issues with the circuit board, connections, or individual keys.
  • Keyboard Driver Problems: The driver software allows the operating system to communicate with the keypad hardware. Outdated or incorrect drivers can cause the keypad to stop functioning.
  • Dust or Debris Buildup: These can interfere with the physical connection between the keypad and the circuit board, leading to a loss of functionality. Regular cleaning of the keypad can prevent this issue.

Checking the Driver’s Status

Before attempting any other solution, you should check the status of your keypad driver. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + X.

2. Click on Device Manager.

3. Expand the Keyboards section.

4. Right-click on the Standard PS/2 Keyboard and select Properties.

keyboard driver status

5. Go to the Driver tab.

6. If the driver is not working correctly, you will see a message indicating a problem with the driver.

If the driver is not working correctly, you need to update it. You can do this by visiting the Dell support website and downloading the latest driver for your laptop model.

Uninstall Your Dell Laptop Keyboard Drivers

If you are facing issues with the Dell laptop keyboard, it is often due to problems with the drivers. To troubleshoot this issue, try reinstalling keyboard drivers by using a mouse. Here’s how:

1. Go to Control Panel (you can search it on your search bar beside the Start menu)

2. Go to the Device Manager and select it using the View by Large icons option.

3. Locate the Keyboards section, right-click on the keyboard driver software, and choose the option to Uninstall the keyboard device.

uninstall keyboard driver

4. After uninstalling, restart your laptop. Reinstalling your keyboard driver will be automatic via your Windows operating system. Check if the keyboard is now functioning correctly.

You can update the keyboard driver to resolve the issue if the keyboard still does not work.

Checking the Keyboard Settings

keyvoard settings

Sometimes, the keypad may not be working due to incorrect settings. To check the keypad settings, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the Start menu and type Control Panel.
  2. Click on Control Panel.
  3. Click on Ease of Access Center >> “Make the keyboard easier to use.”
  4. Check the settings and make sure that they are set up correctly.

Clean the Keypad

clean the keypad

If the keypad is not working due to dust or debris buildup, you must clean it. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off your laptop and unplug it.
  2. Use a can of compressed air to blow air into the keypad area.
  3. Repeat this step a few times to ensure that all dust and debris are removed.
  4. Turn on your laptop and check if the DELL keyboard is working correctly.

It is also best to check whether your current keyboard works well. Otherwise, you must find a keyboard replacement to return to your productive game.

Replace a Faulty Laptop Keyboard

plug in external keyboard

If the keyboard on your laptop is not working, it may need to be replaced, significantly if the motherboard is damaged. Different computer manufacturers have unique designs, making it challenging to provide a universal solution. However, it is common practice to compare the design of laptop manufacturers when replacing parts, such as keyboards or cables. This allows for seamless switch-outs and makes it easier to replace the necessary components.

Plug an External USB Keyboard

If you cannot use the keyboard on your laptop, one solution is to use an external keyboard. You can connect an external keyboard to your computer, allowing you to type normally. If you don’t have access to an external USB keyboard, you can use an on-screen keyboard, a virtual keyboard displayed on your laptop’s screen.

Use an On-Screen Keyboard

To use an on-screen keyboard, click the keyboard icon in the Windows taskbar and start typing. This can be useful if your laptop’s keyboard is broken, damaged, or malfunctioning. An on-screen keyboard provides an alternative way to input data, allowing you to continue using your computer even if the physical keyboard is not working.

Restart the Laptop

restart computer

If none of the above solutions work, you may need to restart your laptop. This will help clear any software or driver-related issues that may be causing the keypad to stop working. To restart your computer, click on the Start menu and click on the Power button.

Get in Touch With Dell Support

dell support

If none of the solutions outlined in this article resolve the issue on your Dell laptop, it may be necessary to contact Dell Support for further assistance. Dell offers a variety of support options, including phone support, live chat, and email. You can visit their website and navigate to the Support section to find the most convenient option.

When you contact Dell Support, having your laptop model number and any relevant information about the keypad issue is helpful. The support team will assist you in resolving the issue and getting your Dell laptop back to working correctly. They may also provide additional solutions, such as repairing or replacing components, to fix the problem.

Get Your Dell Laptop Keyboard Back on Track

In conclusion, the keypad not working on your Dell laptop can be a frustrating problem, but it can be fixed. Following the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue, whether due to software, hardware, or driver problems. If none of these solutions work, professional help may be necessary to diagnose and fix the problem. This may involve repairing or replacing the keyboard or other components.

Cris Mamon
Meet the author

Chris has been writing professionally since the early 2000s. He has written articles for newspapers and magazines, books on Windows software development, and technical documentation on Microsoft products. He also has a passion for helping people get started with technology.