Laptop Trackpad Problems
Issues with a trackpad built into a laptop can be caused by faulty hardware or a problem with the installed software. The best way of finding a fix is to identify the root cause -- if updating the on-board software drivers and applications fails to resolve the problem, then it's more likely to be a malfunction with the trackpad itself, in which case it will need to be repaired or replaced.
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Trackpad Does Not Respond at All
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If you find the trackpad doesn't respond to any user input, this is most likely due to a problem with damaged or malfunctioning hardware, particularly if you have made no obvious hardware or software changes recently. However, software problems might also be to blame. Check the trackpad has not been disabled in the software supplied with the laptop -- the relevant setting may be in the Mouse dialog in Control Panel, depending on how the laptop manufacturer has configured the computer. Alternately, they may be available on the Start menu. Download and install the newest drivers for your operating system from the laptop manufacturer's website to see if this resolves the issue, as these drivers will ensure the laptop is detected by Windows and compatible with the most recent applications.
Trackpad Responds Intermittently
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If the trackpad is only responding intermittently or in certain programs, this may be down to a failing internal connection between the laptop and the trackpad, or settings within the problematic applications themselves. In programs where you are experiencing trackpad issues, ensure you have downloaded and installed any relevant software updates from the developer's website, and check within the program options for settings relating to trackpad use. If the intermittent response is more random in nature, visit Windows Update to check for any operating system updates you haven't installed, and again download and install the latest drivers for the trackpad from the laptop manufacturer's website.
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Some Trackpad Features are Unavailable
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If the trackpad functions but some of the more advanced features (such as multi-touch scrolling) are unavailable, this points towards an issue with missing drivers or utilities. Visit the laptop manufacturer's website to download both the latest drivers and any additional trackpad utilities available for your model -- follow the instructions on screen to install these programs and activate any features that were previously disabled. In most cases, applications developed by laptop manufacturers to control trackpad operation are available from the Start menu or system tray.
Other Trackpad Problems
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Other trackpad problems include erratic behaviour (such as unexplained cursor movement) and over-sensitivity. Unless the trackpad is physically damaged, in most cases downloading and installing the latest drivers for the trackpad clears up the issue. If updated drivers aren't available, or the problem persists, contact the laptop manufacturer -- contact details should be listed on the official website. A technical support area and user forum are often included on the website as well, and these additional troubleshooting resources may prove useful.
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