Wireless Mouse Not Working on Laptop (Step-by-Step Fix)

If your wireless mouse is not working on your laptop, this guide will walk you through simple to advanced fixes. From battery issues to driver settings, here’s how to get your mouse working again in minutes.

How to Fix Wireless Mouse Not Working on Laptop

1. Check Power and Battery

• Replace or recharge the mouse battery.
  
• Make sure the power switch on the mouse is turned on.
  
• Confirm the LED light is blinking or steady to show it’s powered.
  

2. Reconnect or Re-Pair the Mouse

For USB Receiver (2.4GHz):

• Unplug the dongle and wait 10 seconds.
  
• Plug it back in directly (not through a USB hub).
  
• Try a different USB port if needed.
  

If you’re using an ONN model, follow this specific guide on how to connect an ONN wireless mouse for proper setup.

For Bluetooth Mouse:

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  
• Go to Bluetooth & devices, toggle Bluetooth off, then back on.
  
• Remove the mouse from the paired list, then click Add device to re-pair it.
  

If you’re shopping for a reliable upgrade, explore this list of the best Bluetooth mouse models for Windows devices.

3. Restart the Laptop

• Restarting reloads drivers and resolves minor Bluetooth or USB glitches.
  

4. Check Device Manager

• Press Windows + X, then select Device Manager.
  
• Expand Mice and other pointing devices.
  
• Right-click your wireless mouse and select Uninstall device.
  
• Restart your laptop to automatically reinstall the drivers.
  

5. Update or Roll Back Mouse Drivers

• In Device Manager, right-click the mouse and choose Update driver.
  
• Select Search automatically for drivers.
  
• If the issue started after a recent update:
  
  • Right-click the device, go to Properties → Driver tab → click Roll Back Driver.
    

6. Disable Power Saving on USB Ports

• Still in Device Manager, expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
  
• Right-click each USB Root Hub, then click Properties.
  
• Go to the Power Management tab.
  
• Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
  

7. Test the Mouse on Another Device

• Connect the wireless mouse to another laptop or PC.
  
• If it fails there too, the mouse hardware may be defective.
  

If you’re troubleshooting a branded device, like Logitech, this detailed guide on how to fix common Logitech mouse issues might help.

8. Use Windows Troubleshooter

• Press Windows + I, go to System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
  
• Run the Bluetooth or Hardware and Devices troubleshooter based on your mouse type.
  

Conclusion

A non-responsive wireless mouse can usually be fixed with a few quick checks. Start with simple steps like changing the battery or switching USB ports, then move on to pairing and driver-related fixes. If none of these work, testing the mouse on another device or replacing it may be your best option. The sooner you pinpoint the cause, the faster you’ll regain control and productivity.

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