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Likely fix

Fix: Wireless mouse not working

A wireless mouse with a USB receiver usually stops working because of low battery, a loose receiver, USB port problems, interference, wrong mode, or lost pairing.

Quick answer

Replace or charge the battery, reconnect the USB receiver, try another USB port, move the receiver closer, and restart the computer.

Important warning

Some wireless mice have both Bluetooth and USB receiver modes. They will not work with the receiver if set to Bluetooth mode.

Try this

  1. 1 Turn the mouse off and on.
  2. 2 Replace or recharge the battery.
  3. 3 Check battery direction if it uses removable batteries.
  4. 4 Unplug the USB receiver and plug it back in.
  5. 5 Try another USB port.
  6. 6 Avoid USB hubs while testing.
  7. 7 Move the mouse closer to the receiver.
  8. 8 If the mouse has Bluetooth and receiver modes, switch it to receiver mode.
  9. 9 Restart the computer.
  10. 10 Re-pair the mouse with the receiver if the model has a pairing button.

Common causes

Low or dead battery.

USB receiver is loose or missing.

Bad USB port.

Mouse is in the wrong mode.

Wireless interference.

Mouse lost pairing with receiver.

USB hub or dock problem.

What to check next

  • Check whether the mouse has a power switch.
  • Check whether the USB receiver is plugged in.
  • Check whether the mouse has Bluetooth/receiver mode buttons.
  • Check whether fresh batteries help.
  • Check whether a front USB port works better.
  • Check whether the mouse works closer to the receiver.

FAQ

Why did my wireless mouse stop working?

The most common causes are low battery, a loose USB receiver, bad USB port, wrong mode, interference, or lost pairing.

Can low battery make a wireless mouse lag or stop?

Yes. Low battery can cause lag, freezing, missed clicks, random disconnects, or complete failure.

Where should I plug in the wireless mouse receiver?

Use a direct USB port on the computer, ideally close to the mouse and away from metal obstructions or crowded USB hubs.

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