Touchpad Not Working on Windows 11: How to Fix It Step by Step

If your touchpad is not working on Windows 11, the problem is usually caused by a disabled setting, keyboard shortcut, or driver issue. In most cases, the touchpad is not broken and can be fixed in a few minutes.

This guide walks you through all working fixes, starting with the easiest checks and moving to advanced solutions if needed.

Why the Touchpad Stops Working on Windows 11

A touchpad can stop working for several reasons, most of which are software-related.

Common causes include:

• Touchpad disabled in settings
• Accidental keyboard shortcut pressed
• Driver missing or corrupted
• Windows update conflicts
• External mouse disabling the touchpad
• BIOS settings changed

Hardware failure is less common.

Quick Checks Before Troubleshooting

Before changing system settings, try these quick steps.

• Restart your laptop
• Disconnect any external mouse
• Clean the touchpad surface
• Try using the keyboard to navigate

If the touchpad works in BIOS or during startup, the issue is almost certainly software-related.

Enable Touchpad in Windows 11 Settings

The touchpad may simply be turned off.

Steps

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Bluetooth and devices
3. Select Touchpad
4. Turn the Touchpad toggle On

Also check related options like tap-to-click and gestures.

Use Keyboard Shortcut to Enable Touchpad

Many laptops allow disabling the touchpad using a shortcut.

Try pressing:

• Fn + F6
• Fn + F8
• Fn + F10
• A function key with a touchpad icon

The exact key depends on your laptop brand.

Check Touchpad in Device Manager

The touchpad driver may be disabled.

Steps

1. Right-click the Start button
2. Open Device Manager
3. Expand Mice and other pointing devices
4. Right-click your touchpad
5. Select Enable device if available

If you see Disable device, it is already enabled.

Update or Reinstall Touchpad Drivers

Driver issues are a common cause on Windows 11.

Update Touchpad Driver

Steps:

1. Open Device Manager
2. Right-click the touchpad device
3. Select Update driver
4. Choose Search automatically

Reinstall Touchpad Driver

Steps:

1. Right-click the touchpad device
2. Select Uninstall device
3. Restart your laptop

Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.

Fix Touchpad Not Working After Windows Update

If the problem started after an update, try these fixes.

Roll Back the Driver

Steps:

1. Open Device Manager
2. Right-click the touchpad device
3. Select Properties
4. Go to Driver tab
5. Click Roll Back Driver

Install Manufacturer Touchpad Driver

Generic drivers may not support gestures.

Steps:

• Visit your laptop manufacturer’s support website
• Download the Windows 11 touchpad driver
• Install and restart

This is especially important for Synaptics or ELAN touchpads.

Check BIOS Touchpad Settings

The touchpad can be disabled in BIOS.

Steps

1. Restart your laptop
2. Enter BIOS or UEFI
3. Look for Touchpad or Internal Pointing Device
4. Make sure it is enabled
5. Save changes and exit

When the Touchpad Is a Hardware Issue

If none of the fixes work, hardware may be the cause.

Signs of hardware failure:

• Touchpad does not work even in BIOS
• Touchpad not detected at all
• Physical damage or liquid exposure

In this case, professional repair may be required.

Final Thoughts

A touchpad not working on Windows 11 is almost always caused by settings or drivers rather than hardware failure. By checking settings, shortcuts, drivers, and BIOS options in order, most users can restore touchpad functionality quickly.

If the touchpad still does not work after all fixes, the issue may require professional service.

FAQs

Why does my touchpad stop working randomly?

Usually due to driver glitches or accidental shortcuts.

Does an external mouse disable the touchpad?

Some laptops disable the touchpad automatically when a mouse is connected.

Can Windows updates break the touchpad?

Yes. Driver conflicts after updates are common.

Should I reset Windows to fix the touchpad?

Only as a last resort. Most issues are fixed without resetting.