How to Unlock a Keyboard & Mouse

A keyboard and mouse are essential to the proper use of a computer. A locked mouse and keyboard can be quite frustrating. This usually happens due to a malfunction within the computer itself, that causes non-recognition of the devices by the computer. Generally unlocking the keyboard and mouse is simple, but sometimes they will need to be replaced.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Keyboard
• Mouse

1. Shut down the computer. To do this without the keyboard or mouse, hold down the "Power" button for three seconds. If the computer does not power down, hold for a few more seconds.

2. Shut off the power supply to the computer. This is the power switch on the back of the computer. Make sure that it is in the "Off" position.

3. Unplug the devices. Both the mouse and the keyboard need to be disconnected from the back of the computer. If there are a lot of wires, follow the line from each device to the back.

4. Plug the mouse and keyboard back into the back of the computer. The outlet for each component will have a picture of a mouse or keyboard next to it. The color should also match the color of the mouse and keyboard connector.

5. Turn the power supply back on by pushing the switch on the back of the computer into the "On" position. Press the "Power" button on the front of the computer. The keyboard and mouse should now work. If they do not, you will need to go to the control panel and click on "Keyboard," and then "Hardware settings." From here you can troubleshoot the devices.

Tips & Warnings

• Try the mouse and keyboard on a different computer.
• Liquids spilled in the devices will cause them to stop working.

Resources

• Newegg keyboard and mouse sets
• Tigerdirect keyboard and mouse sets