If your laptop touchpad is not working, the most common reasons are disabled touchpad settings, outdated or missing drivers, accidental function key presses, or software conflicts. You can usually fix the problem by enabling the touchpad in settings, updating drivers, and checking the function key combination.
A non-working touchpad can make a laptop almost unusable, especially if you do not have an external mouse available. Many users experience this issue suddenly after a Windows update, driver installation, or accidentally pressing a keyboard shortcut.
In most cases, the touchpad hardware is fine, and the problem is caused by incorrect settings or driver issues. Understanding the root cause will help you fix the issue quickly without unnecessary repairs.
Before applying fixes, identify whether the touchpad issue is hardware-related.
If the touchpad works in BIOS but not in Windows, the problem is software-related.
A temporary system glitch can disable the touchpad. Restarting the laptop often resolves the issue instantly.
The touchpad may be disabled in system settings, either manually or after an update.
Also check the option to keep the touchpad enabled when a mouse is connected.
Most laptops have a function key combination that enables or disables the touchpad. Accidentally pressing it can turn the touchpad off.
Look for a key with a touchpad icon and press it while holding the Fn key.
Touchpad drivers allow Windows to communicate with the trackpad. Outdated or missing drivers can disable touchpad functionality.
Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.
Generic Windows drivers may not support advanced touchpad features.
Some third-party software and utilities can interfere with touchpad input.
Booting into Safe Mode can help identify software conflicts.
Windows updates often include fixes for touchpad issues.
In some laptops, the touchpad can be disabled directly from BIOS.
If none of the software fixes work, the touchpad may be physically damaged.
Professional repair or touchpad replacement may be required.
This usually happens due to driver issues or accidental function key presses.
Yes, but updates usually fix compatibility issues in later patches.
It is a temporary workaround, but fixing the touchpad is recommended.
Last updated: January 2026 • Techfix&Guides