If your trackpad is not working, it can really slow you down. Whether it suddenly stopped responding or just won’t move the cursor, it’s frustrating.
Trackpads are a key part of laptops and tablets, so knowing how to fix common problems can save you time and stress.
Keep reading to discover simple, clear solutions to get your trackpad working again.
Why Is My Trackpad Not Working? Common Causes
When your trackpad is not working, it’s usually because of one or more common issues. Understanding these reasons helps you find the right fix faster.
Here are the main causes:
- Trackpad Disabled by Mistake: Sometimes a keyboard shortcut or setting accidentally turns off the trackpad. The key used to toggle the trackpad varies by laptop brand and model, but it usually has a touchpad icon on one of the function keys (like F5, F6, or F7).
- Driver or Software Problems: Outdated or corrupted drivers can stop the trackpad from responding.
- Hardware Issues: Physical damage or dirt can cause the trackpad to fail.
- System Updates or Bugs: New updates might cause temporary glitches with the trackpad.
- Touchpad Lock Button: Some laptops have a button or key that locks the trackpad, which can be pressed by accident.
Knowing these reasons will help you decide what to try first to fix your trackpad not working.
How to Fix Your Not Working Trackpad: Simple Steps to Try First
If your trackpad suddenly stops working, don’t panic. Start with these easy fixes that often solve the problem quickly.
Try these steps:
✅ Restart Your Laptop or Tablet: A quick reboot can clear temporary glitches.
✅ Check for Trackpad Toggle Keys: Look for an F key with a touchpad icon. Pressing it with the Fn key can turn the trackpad on or off. Remember, this key varies by device, so check your keyboard carefully.
✅ Check Settings: Go to your device’s settings to make sure the trackpad is enabled. On Windows, this might be under “Devices” or “Mouse & touchpad” depending on your version.
✅ Unfreeze Your Touchpad: If the cursor is stuck, toggling the trackpad off and on again often unfreezes it.
✅ Check for External Devices: Sometimes connecting an external mouse disables the trackpad automatically. Try unplugging any external mouse to see if the trackpad starts working again.
If these quick tips don’t work, keep reading for more detailed solutions.
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📌 Don’t forget to browse the article Can I Use a Mouse with an iPad? Here’s What You Need to Know to learn how you can easily switch to a mouse if your trackpad issues continue.
How to Reactivate or Enable Your Trackpad When It’s Not Working
Sometimes your trackpad is just disabled in your device settings. It’s easy to check and fix this.
Here’s how to enable your trackpad:
On Windows
- Open Settings > Devices > Touchpad or Mouse & Touchpad.
- Make sure the touchpad toggle is switched on.
- If there’s an option to disable the touchpad when a mouse is connected, check if it’s turned off.
On macOS
- Go to System Preferences > Trackpad.
- Ensure the trackpad is enabled and check your gestures settings.
Look for a Touchpad Lock Button
Some laptops have a special button or key combination to lock or unlock the trackpad. Pressing it again can reactivate the trackpad.
📌 If you want to upgrade your setup, check out the Top 5 Best Wireless Keyboard Case with Touchpad from Chesona article to discover keyboard cases that come with built-in touchpads for easier navigation.
How to Reset Your Trackpad Settings to Fix Trackpad Not Working Issues
Resetting your trackpad settings can fix problems caused by wrong configurations or software bugs.
Here’s how to reset:
Windows
- Open Device Manager.
- Find your touchpad device under “Mice and other pointing devices.”
- Right-click and select “Uninstall device.”
-
Restart your laptop, and Windows will reinstall the default drivers.
Mac
- Reset the NVRAM or PRAM by restarting and holding Option + Command + P + R keys.
- This resets hardware settings including the trackpad.
Resetting removes any custom settings that might be causing the trackpad not to work. After resetting, test your trackpad again.
Updating or Reinstalling Drivers When Trackpad Is Not Working
Outdated or corrupt drivers are a common cause of trackpad problems. Updating or reinstalling drivers can fix the issue.
Follow these steps:
- Open Device Manager on Windows.
- Find your touchpad device.
- Right-click and select “Update driver.”
- If no updates are found, try “Uninstall device” and restart your laptop to reinstall the driver.
Keeping your drivers updated helps prevent trackpad problems and improves performance.
📌 If you want to explore alternatives, discover the differences in Trackpad vs Mouse: Pros, Cons, & Best Use Cases and see what might work best for your needs.
What to Do When Your Trackpad Hardware Is Not Working
If software fixes don’t help, your trackpad might have a hardware problem.
Look for these signs:
- Trackpad doesn’t respond at all, even after resets and updates.
- Physical damage or spills near the trackpad area.
- Cursor moves erratically or jumps around.
Try cleaning the trackpad gently with a soft, dry cloth to remove dirt or grease. Power off your device before cleaning and avoid using liquids unless specified for electronics.
If the problem continues, you might need professional repair or replacement.
📌 For a temporary solution, check out Keyboard and Mouse Not Working? Try This Fix for tips on using external devices while you fix your trackpad.
Tips to Prevent Trackpad Not Working Problems in the Future
Keeping your trackpad healthy is easier than fixing it after it breaks.
Here are some tips:
- Avoid pressing the touchpad lock button by mistake.
- Keep your device clean and dry.
- Update your drivers regularly.
- Use protective cases with built-in keyboards and trackpads to reduce wear and tear. Chesona offers high quality protective cases with touchpads for iPad and Samsung tablets that help protect your device while making navigation easier.
Taking care of your trackpad can save you time and money down the road.
Conclusion
A trackpad not working can be frustrating, but most problems have simple fixes. From checking settings and toggling keys to updating drivers and resetting your device, these steps cover the most common solutions. If hardware issues arise, cleaning or professional help might be needed.
For more helpful guides and tips about trackpads, iPads, and other tablets, visit Chesona. You’ll also find high quality protective cases and cases with built-in keyboards for iPad and Samsung tablets of any model.
These accessories can keep your devices safe and make using them even easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trackpad Not Working
How do I unfreeze my touchpad?
Press the trackpad toggle key on your keyboard, usually an F key with a touchpad icon, while holding the Fn key. You can also disable and re-enable the touchpad in settings to unfreeze it.
How do I reactivate my trackpad?
Check your device’s touchpad settings and make sure it is enabled. Also, look for any touchpad lock buttons or keyboard shortcuts that might have disabled it.
Why did the touchpad suddenly stop working?
It could be due to accidental disabling, driver issues, software updates, or hardware problems. Checking settings and updating drivers usually helps identify the cause.
Is there a touchpad lock button?
Some laptops have a dedicated button or key combination to lock or unlock the touchpad. This can prevent accidental cursor movement while typing.
What is the shortcut key for unfreezing the touchpad?
Usually, pressing the touchpad toggle key (often an F key with a touchpad icon) along with the Fn key will unfreeze the touchpad.
