Keyboard Not Working After Windows Update: Troubleshooting Guide

Experiencing a keyboard malfunction immediately after a Windows update is a common and frustrating issue. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and resolving keyboard problems stemming from a recent Windows update.

Understanding the Problem

Several factors can cause a keyboard to stop functioning after a Windows update. These include:

  • Driver Issues: The update may have corrupted or made incompatible your existing keyboard drivers.
  • System File Corruption: Critical system files related to input devices might have been damaged during the update process.
  • Incorrect Settings: Update may have altered keyboard settings, disabling it or causing conflicts.
  • Hardware Conflicts: Conflicts with other connected devices can sometimes arise after an update.
  • Update Bugs: Occasionally, the update itself may contain bugs affecting keyboard functionality.

Troubleshooting Steps

Follow these steps in order, testing your keyboard after each to see if the problem is resolved:

1. Basic Checks

  • Restart Your Computer: A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches.
  • Check the Keyboard Cable/Connection: Ensure the keyboard is securely connected to the computer. If it’s a wireless keyboard, check the batteries and the connection between the keyboard and its receiver.
  • Try a Different USB Port: If using a USB keyboard, try plugging it into a different USB port. Some ports might not be functioning correctly.
  • Test on Another Computer: If possible, test the keyboard on another computer to rule out a hardware issue with the keyboard itself.

2. Use the On-Screen Keyboard

If your physical keyboard is not working, use the On-Screen Keyboard to navigate Windows and perform troubleshooting steps:

  • Accessing the On-Screen Keyboard:
    • Click the Start button.
    • Go to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
    • Turn on the On-Screen Keyboard toggle.

3. Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers

  • Access Device Manager:
    • Right-click the Start button.
    • Select Device Manager.
  • Locate Keyboards: Expand the Keyboards category.
  • Update Driver: Right-click on your keyboard and select Update driver.
    • Choose Search automatically for drivers to let Windows find and install the latest driver. If this doesn’t work…
  • Uninstall and Reinstall Driver:
    • Right-click on your keyboard and select Uninstall device.
    • Restart your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall the keyboard driver upon restart.

4. Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

  • Access Troubleshooter:
    • Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
    • Select Hardware and Devices and click Run the troubleshooter.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

5. System Restore

System Restore allows you to revert your computer to a previous state before the Windows update. This can undo any changes that might be causing the keyboard issue. This is a good option if other methods have failed. Note: This will remove any software installed after the restore point.

  • Access System Restore:
    • Search for Create a restore point in the Windows search bar.
    • Click on the System Restore button.
    • Choose a restore point from before the Windows update.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process.

6. Check Keyboard Settings

Certain keyboard settings can accidentally disable the keyboard or change its functionality.

  • Filter Keys: Filter Keys can sometimes interfere with keyboard input.
    • Open Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
    • Ensure Filter Keys is turned off.
  • Sticky Keys: Similar to Filter Keys, Sticky Keys can cause unexpected behavior.
    • Ensure Sticky Keys is also turned off in the same settings menu.

7. Check for Conflicting Programs

Some programs might interfere with keyboard functionality. Try performing a clean boot to disable unnecessary startup programs and services.

  • Perform a Clean Boot:
    • Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
    • Type msconfig and press Enter.
    • Go to the Services tab.
    • Check Hide all Microsoft services box.
    • Click Disable all.
    • Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
    • Disable all startup items.
    • Restart your computer.
  • If the keyboard works after a clean boot, re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the conflicting program.

8. Roll Back the Windows Update

If none of the above solutions work, consider rolling back the Windows update to the previous version. This will remove the update that caused the keyboard issue.

  • Access Recovery Options:
    • Open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
    • Under Go back to the previous version of Windows 10, click Get started.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to roll back the update.

Prevention

  • Create a System Restore Point: Before installing any updates, create a system restore point. This allows you to easily revert to a previous state if something goes wrong.
  • Backup Important Data: Back up your important data before installing any major updates.
  • Check Compatibility: Research potential compatibility issues between the update and your hardware or software.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve keyboard issues caused by a Windows update and restore your keyboard to its normal functioning state.