Top 5 Solutions to Resolve Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working Issue

Essential Insights

Many users face keyboard malfunctions in Windows 11, often due to driver failures and system errors, affecting daily tasks.
Checking the keyboard’s functionality and adhering to the outlined steps carefully is crucial for troubleshooting the keyboard not responding issue in Windows 11.

Microsoft has introduced Windows 11 as its latest operating system, which, while generally stable, isn’t entirely free from common issues. The keyboard plays a vital role in PC operation, and there can be instances where it becomes unresponsive. Historically, Windows has encountered problems that cause peripheral devices to disconnect, primarily stemming from driver issues and software errors. Fortunately, various solutions exist to fix keyboard problems in Windows 11, and we are here to guide you through them.

Resolve Keyboard Not Functioning in Windows 11

As an upgrade from Windows 10, Windows 11 retains several of the previous version’s quirks. You need not struggle with the computer to troubleshoot; instead, a few straightforward checks can help identify the issue. First, it’s essential to verify that the keyboard itself isn’t defective. Testing it on another device can help confirm its functionality. Here are some common reasons keyboards may malfunction in Windows 11:

Driver-related issues
Problems with the USB port
Recent operating system updates
Defective hardware

Allow me to guide you through some simple yet effective fixes, followed by advanced troubleshooting strategies for addressing keyboard issues in Windows 11.

Reboot Your Windows 11 PC

Instead of disconnecting the keyboard, restart your computer to clear temporary files and initiate a fresh session. A reboot prompts Windows to reload necessary drivers, which can effectively resolve the problem.

Step 1: Press the “Start” button on your keyboard.

Step 2: Locate and click the power icon in the lower left corner.

Step 3: Select “Restart” from the available options.

Step 4: Your computer will proceed to restart.

Before restarting, ensure that all work is saved and tabs are closed to avoid losing important information. Don’t underestimate the power of a reboot; it can often resolve many issues swiftly.

Try a Different USB Port

Most Windows PCs offer several USB ports. If you’re short on time and want a quick fix without rebooting, consider connecting the keyboard to a different USB port. I encountered a similar issue recently and found that moving my keyboard to another port resolved it immediately.

This is a straightforward solution that anyone can implement. I had never used that particular USB port before, so the keyboard drivers were successfully installed anew. Always choose a port that hasn’t been occupied previously.

Remove Keyboard Drivers

While some high-end keyboards come with special software for functionality customization, many basic keyboards do not require additional software. In such cases, consider uninstalling the existing drivers and reconnecting the keyboard to prompt a reinstallation.

Step 1: Disconnect the keyboard from your computer.

Step 2: Click the “Start” button and open “Settings.”

Step 3: Select “Bluetooth & Devices” to proceed.

Step 4: Choose “Devices” next.

Step 5: Locate the keyboard drivers listed under “Input.”

Step 6: Click the three-dot menu icon to access more options.

Step 7: Select “Remove device.”

Afterward, restart your computer and reconnect the keyboard to let Windows install the necessary drivers. While it’s also possible to uninstall drivers via Device Manager, using the Settings app is generally more convenient.

Edit Registry Values

Keyboard issues are frequently tied to driver malfunctions or kernel problems in your system. Before modifying the registry, ensure you verify the condition of the peripheral and try the previously suggested fixes.

Step 1: Click the “Windows” icon to start the process.