Quick answer
If the touchpad is not working, first check if it is disabled by a keyboard shortcut (Fn + F key with touchpad icon) or in settings. Then check the driver in Device Manager and install the latest one from the manufacturer's website. If that does not help, the problem is likely hardware.
How to recognize the problem
- Cursor does not move when you slide your finger on the touchpad
- Touchpad responds intermittently or skips movements
- Clicks do not work, but cursor movement works (or vice versa)
- Touchpad is completely dead, but USB mouse works normally
- After a Windows update, the touchpad stopped working
Most common causes
Touchpad is disabled by a shortcut or in settings
Many laptops have an Fn shortcut that turns the touchpad on and off. Also, in Windows settings it may be disabled as an input device.
Faulty or outdated driver
A Windows update or installation of other software can corrupt the touchpad driver. Often the manufacturer's driver is missing, so Windows uses a generic one that does not support all features.
Conflict with another device or software
Sometimes a USB mouse or other peripheral interferes with the touchpad. Device management software (e.g., manufacturer's tool) can block the touchpad.
Hardware failure (cable, connector, or the board itself)
If the touchpad is physically damaged or the cable inside the laptop has come loose, no software settings will help. This often happens after a fall or forceful opening of the case.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Check that it is not disabled by a keyboard shortcut
Look for a key on the keyboard with a touchpad icon (usually one of the F keys, depending on the model). Press
Fn+ that key simultaneously. On some models, there is a separate button above the touchpad. If a notification appears on the screen, check if it says the touchpad is enabled. - 2
Enable the touchpad in Windows settings
Open
Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad(Windows 11) orSettings > Devices > Touchpad(Windows 10). Check if the touchpad switch is on. If it is off, turn it on and test. - 3
Check in Device Manager
Right-click on
Startand selectDevice Manager. FindMice and other pointing devicesand expand the list. If the touchpad has a yellow exclamation mark, right-click and selectUpdate driver, then the option to search automatically. If no yellow exclamation mark is shown, right-click on the touchpad and selectEnable device(if the option is available). - 4
Uninstall and reinstall the driver
Before uninstalling, connect a USB mouse if you have one, so you can continue working. In Device Manager, right-click on the touchpad and select
Uninstall device. If an option to remove the driver appears, check it, then confirm. Then restart the computer. Windows should automatically install the default driver. If the touchpad still does not work, proceed to the next step. - 5
Install the driver from the manufacturer's website
Go to the official website of the laptop manufacturer, find the model, and download the latest touchpad driver (often called "Touchpad driver" or "Precision Touchpad"). Install it and restart the computer. Do not download drivers from unknown websites.
- 6
Check if the touchpad is disabled in BIOS/UEFI
Restart the laptop and press the key to enter BIOS/UEFI (usually F2, F10, Del, or Esc, depending on the model). Find the option
Internal Pointing Deviceor similar and make sure it is enabled (Enabled). Save changes and exit. If you are not sure, do not change other options. - 7
Test the touchpad in another environment
Boot the laptop from a Live Linux USB device (e.g., Ubuntu Live) and try the touchpad. If it works there, the problem is in the Windows installation or driver. If it does not work there either, it is likely a hardware failure.
- 8
Check the physical cable and connector (if you are experienced)
If the laptop is not under warranty, if it opens easily, and if you have the appropriate tools, carefully open the bottom cover and check if the touchpad cable is properly connected to the motherboard. Before opening, turn off the laptop, disconnect the power, and, if possible, remove the battery. Be gentle, plastic connectors break easily. If you are not sure, skip this step.
If nothing helps
If you have tried all the steps and the touchpad still does not work, it is likely a hardware failure. In that case, you can use a USB mouse as a temporary solution. For a permanent repair, contact an authorized service center or IT support. Do not attempt to solder or replace the touchpad yourself if you have no experience, as you can damage the motherboard. If the laptop is under warranty, do not open it yourself to avoid losing the warranty.
How to prevent it
- Regularly update Windows and drivers via Windows Update or the manufacturer's website.
- Do not install unknown "optimization" programs that can corrupt drivers.
- Clean the touchpad with a soft cloth and avoid liquids near the laptop.
- Use a protective bag to prevent impacts and damage.
When to call a professional
If you suspect a hardware failure or the laptop needs to be opened, it is better to contact a service center or IT support. Also, if the laptop is under warranty, do not touch it yourself.
IT infrastructure maintenance · Servers, networks, backup, security and helpdeskFAQ
Why does the touchpad not work after a Windows update?
The update may have replaced the driver with an incompatible version. The solution is to uninstall the driver in Device Manager and restart the computer, or install the latest driver from the manufacturer's website.
How do I know if the touchpad is hardware faulty?
If the touchpad does not work in a Live Linux environment either, and it is enabled in BIOS/UEFI settings (if that option exists), it is likely a hardware failure. Also, if you notice physical damage or the cable is disconnected, that is a sign that repair is needed.
Can I use the laptop without a touchpad?
Yes, you can connect a USB mouse or use the keyboard for navigation. However, for a portable laptop, the touchpad is more convenient, so repair is recommended.