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Step 1
Change the batteries in your mouse.
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Step 2
Make sure that the mouse is securely plugged into your USB port.
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Step 3
Shut down and reboot your computer.
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Step 4
See if dirt or grime is blocking your roller-ball or optical mouse. For a roller-ball mouse, the ball can be removed and cleaned. The cavity of the roller-ball should be gently wiped down, as well. For an optical mouse, make sure the dust is wiped down from the feet and lens of the mouse.
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Step 5
Look at your mousepad. If it is full of dirt or grime, it can gunk up your mouse. Wipe your mousepad down with a damp rag.
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Step 6
Replace your mousepad. Not all mousepad surfaces work the same for all types of mice.
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Step 7
Attach your mouse to a different computer to see if the problem is with your mouse or your computer. If the mouse works, the problem is with your computer.
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Step 8
Run a full virus scan to see if a virus is affecting the performance of your mouse. If a virus is found, follow the prompts of your virus software to fix this problem.
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Step 9
Check on the status of your mouse. Click on "Start," "Control Panel," "Printers and Applications," and then click on "Mouse." If you see a yellow icon, there is a problem with your mouse files. Remove the program file for your mouse on your laptop. Restart your computer and the operating system should restore the original factory mouse settings. If this does not occur, or if you have a specialized mouse, download the mouse software from your disk.
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Step 10
Make sure you have the most recent driver updates for your mouse. Go to the web page for the manufacturer of your mouse. Click on the mouse model. Look for recent upgrades. Download upgrades, if applicable.
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Step 11
Restore your computer to a point where the mouse was working. Follow the prompts on your computer. Select a date. Reboot your computer when indicated.
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Step 12
Find out if the radio frequency of your wireless mouse is being affected by another device in your home. Many other home appliances run on similar radio frequencies. Move your bluetooth receiver closer to your mouse.
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Step 13
Determine if there has been any damage to your mouse or your computer port. Is the USB plug bent? Is the USB port malfunctioning? Is there a cut in your mouse cord?
