[Fixed] Keypad is Not Working on a Windows Laptop

[Fixed] Keypad is Not Working on a Windows Laptop

/ Sed Galope

Having trouble with your laptop’s keypad can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of an important task or project. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! We understand the challenges that come with this issue and are here to help.

This easy-to-follow Windows troubleshooting guide will dive into the most common causes and solutions for a non-functioning keypad on your Windows laptop. Our goal is to get you back on track and typing away with ease, so let’s start exploring these handy tips and tricks to resolve your keypad woes in no time!

Run SFC Scan

Suppose the laptop keyboard is not working appropriately, or you are using an external keyboard that is not working due to some functionality errors. In that case, it could be a software issue mostly caused by corrupted system files for the particular device drivers.

To resolve the error, one needs to fix the faulty laptop keyboard. In this context, running an SFC (system file checker) scan can detect and resolve the file’s corruption error. Here is how you can run the scan. 

Step 1: Launch the command prompt by run utility. Click windows key+ R, and in the run command box, type cmd. Click ok to continue.

run cmd

Step 2: In the command prompt, type sfc /scannow. Click enter to continue. The SFC scan will initiate, and the issue will be resolved as soon as it completes. 

sfc scan

Change Keyboard Settings

Filter keys facilitate the users who cannot press two function keys simultaneously. Sometimes, the filter keys can cause an error, i.e., the keypad not working on the laptop/keyboard not working. If you face this issue, turning off the filter keys can resolve the problem. It can be done via the control panel. Here are the steps to follow: 

Step 1: Launch the control panel from the windows main menu. Type the control panel in the taskbar’s search and double-click the option in the list to open.

windows search control panel

Step 2: Select the ease of access option in the control panel window. 

ease of access

Step 3: In the next window, select the option of change how your keyboard works link followed by unchecking the box of turn on filter keys. Click Apply, followed by clicking ok to complete the action. 

disable filter keys

Change Keyboard Layout

Keypad not working on laptop error may occur due to faulty keypad/keyboard layout settings. The laptop keyboard layout should synchronize with other keypad settings in this context. Here are the steps for how to change the keyboard layout. 

Step 1: Launch settings from the gear icon in the windows main menu. In the settings window, select the option of time and language

Step 2: Click on language and region in the time and language menu.

change time and language

Step 3: In the list of languages and regions, select the preferred languages option and English as language from the language options. 

select english as preferred language

Step 4: Check if you have correctly installed the appropriate keyboard’s native language layout. 

select correct keyboard native language layout

Fix Hardware Issue

Due to hardware issues, the laptop may confront a keypad not working on the laptop error. To confirm the root cause, check if the keyboard works in pre-boot mode. If the keyboard is fine just before windows start, the issue is linked to software or driver, but if it does not work properly, you need to check the hardware. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch settings from the main menu. In the settings window, type recovery in the search bar and then select the option of recovery option

Step 2: In recovery, select advanced startup and restart now

advanced startup restart now

Step 3: Reboot the device, select troubleshoot, and select advanced options

advanced options troubleshoot

Step 4: Look for the command prompt in advanced options and launch it to test the keyboard. If the keyboard works fine, then the hardware needs repair. 

command prompt in advanced options

Update/Uninstall Laptop Keyboard Driver

One of the reasons for the laptop keyboard not working is the faulty keyboard drivers installed in your device. At any point, a corrupted or damaged system file linked to attached devices like a keyboard can cause a functionality error. Hence, using updated drivers may resolve the problem. Here are the steps with which one can update the keyboard drivers. 

Step 1: Right-click the windows icon in the Windows main menu and select device manager from the list. Double-click it to open.

Step 2: In the device manager window, select the option of keyboards and expand it.  

update keyboard driver

Step 3: You can see the faulty device (keyboard) from the list. Right-click the option and select update drivers from the menu. 

Step 4: Browse for updated driver software and select the search option automatically for drivers. As soon as your device searches for updated drivers, it will install them automatically. 

Updating keyboard drivers can resolve the issue, but in some cases, uninstalling and reinstalling drivers can serve the purpose. If you uninstall the driver manually, the operating system will automatically install the compatible drivers for your device. 

Step 1: Launch the device manager by following the steps mentioned above.

Step 2: In the device manager window, select the option of keyboards to expand. Right-click the option to select uninstall device. Click Uninstall in UAC to complete the action. 

uninstall keyboard driver

Frequently Asked Questions About The Keypad Not Working on the Laptop

Why is My USB Keyboard Not Working?

First, ensure that your computer’s USB port is functioning properly. You can do this by plugging a different USB device – such as a flash drive or mouse – into the port to see if it works. If the port is working correctly, ensure your USB cable is securely plugged into your keyboard and the computer. Also, try a different USB port on your computer if available.

What Causes Laptop Keyboards to Not Work?

Most of the time, laptop keyboards not working is caused by a software issue. In other words, the hardware itself may function properly, but a problem with the settings or configurations can make it appear like the keyboard isn’t working. This could be due to an outdated driver, incorrect language settings, or even third-party applications that can conflict with the laptop’s keyboard.

Why Do Specific Keyboard Keys Stop Working?

There are several possible explanations for why specific keys on a keyboard might stop working. One possibility is that dirt and dust can build up over time, blocking the buttons from contacting the circuit board beneath them. Other possibilities include physical damage to one or more keys, such as liquid spills or breakage.

How Do I Enable Slow Keys?

If you find that you are frequently mistyping characters, or if it takes a long time to press a key, you may want to enable Slow Keys. Slow Keys is an accessibility feature that allows you to control how long the key must be pressed before it is registered.

Why Isn’t My Wireless Keyboard Responding?

Wireless keyboards rely on a USB dongle or Bluetooth connection to communicate with the computer. If your wireless keyboard isn’t responding, it could be due to several possible causes. The first possibility is that the batteries in the keyboard are running low and need replacing.

How is My Keyboard Device Corrupted?

The first step in determining whether your keyboard device is corrupted is to check for any visible signs of damage. If no physical damage is present, you will want to start by checking the device’s connection. If it is connected to a computer, ensure that it is securely plugged in and that all required drivers are installed properly.

Can I Update the Keyboard Drivers?

Yes, you can update the keyboard drivers. It’s important to keep your device’s drivers up-to-date to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with other system components. Updating keyboard drivers is relatively simple, but it will require access to a reliable internet connection and an administrator account on the computer.

What is a Keyboard Input?

A keyboard input is a device to enter data and information into computers, laptops, tablets, and other electronic devices. It comprises letters, numbers, special characters, and function keys that help users interact with the computer or device. Keyboard inputs are usually connected to a computer system via wires or wireless connections such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

What is a Typical Hardware Problem for Keyboards?

Common hardware issues with keyboards include unresponsive keys, sticky keys, malfunctioning lights, and faulty connections. Unresponsive keys are usually caused by dirt build-up between the key switches, while sticky keys can be attributed to damaged or weakened key components. Malfunctioning lights may indicate an issue related to the keyboard’s power supply or power management settings.

Can My Laptop’s Motherboard Affect My Keypad?

Yes, your laptop’s motherboard can affect your keypad. The main reason is that the motherboard is the central hub where all the hardware components are connected. A problem with the motherboard can cause issues with other hardware components, including the keyboard and its associated circuitry.

Sed Galope
Meet the author

Sedfrey is an experienced writer and editor. He's also a PC hardware and gaming enthusiast. In his spare time, he enjoys reading about the latest innovations in the PC market and finding fixes to hardware and software errors.