When your keyboard suddenly stops typing on Windows, it can disrupt work, gaming, and daily tasks. This issue is often related to driver problems, system settings, or hardware conflicts. Below is a comprehensive guide that starts with the most effective solution: updating your keyboard drivers using Driver Sentry, followed by multiple practical fixes you can apply step by step.
Update Keyboard Drivers with Using Driver Sentry
Outdated, missing, or corrupted keyboard drivers are the most common reason a keyboard is not typing. Updating drivers should always be the first troubleshooting step.
Download and Install:
Click the "Download" button to download the Windows installer.
Run the setup file, follow the on-screen instructions, and complete the installation.
Scan Your System:
Open the program from your desktop shortcut or the Windows Start menu, click the "Scan" button.
Wait for the scan to complete. Driver Sentry will detect outdated, missing, or incompatible drivers.
Update All Drivers:
Review the scan results.
Identify any outdated, missing, or corrupted drivers, especially those related to USB input devices. Click "Repair Now" button to automatically download and install the latest compatible drivers.
Restart Your Computer:
Restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
Updating drivers this way ensures compatibility with your Windows version and avoids installing incorrect drivers manually.
Common Causes of Keyboard Not Typing on Windows
Before applying additional fixes, it helps to understand the typical reasons behind this issue:
Corrupted or outdated keyboard drivers
USB or wireless connection issues
Disabled keyboard settings in Windows
Incorrect language or input method settings
Interference from third-party software
Hardware failure or power issues
Fix 1: Check Keyboard Connection and Power
For wired keyboards:
Unplug the keyboard and reconnect it to a different USB port.
Avoid using USB hubs; connect directly to the PC.
Try the keyboard on another computer to rule out hardware failure.
For wireless keyboards:
Replace or recharge the batteries.
Re-pair the keyboard via Bluetooth settings.
Ensure the wireless receiver is firmly connected.
Fix 2: Restart Windows Keyboard Services
Press Win + R, type "services.msc", and press Enter.
Locate "Human Interface Device" Service, right-click it and select "Restart".
Set the Startup type to Automatic if it is not already.
This service controls input devices and may stop responding after system updates.
Fix 3: Check Keyboard Settings in Windows
Open Settings.
Go to Ease of Access > Keyboard.
Make sure Filter Keys, Sticky Keys, and Toggle Keys are turned off.
Test the keyboard again.
These features can unintentionally block or delay keystrokes.
Fix 4: Verify Language and Input Method Settings
Open Settings > Time & Language > Language & Region.
Ensure the correct language and keyboard layout are selected.
Remove unused keyboard layouts to avoid conflicts.
Restart your PC after making changes.
Incorrect layouts may cause the keyboard to appear unresponsive.
Fix 5: Reinstall Keyboard Driver Manually
If updating does not help, reinstall the driver:
Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
Expand "Keyboards", right-click your keyboard device and choose "Uninstall device".
Restart your computer.
Windows will automatically reinstall the default keyboard driver.
For best results, follow up with Driver Sentry to install the latest version.
Fix 6: Check for Windows Updates
Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Click "Check for updates".
Install all available updates, including optional driver updates.
Restart your system.
Some keyboard issues are resolved through Windows patches.
Fix 7: Run Windows Troubleshooter
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
Run the Keyboard troubleshooter.
Apply any suggested fixes.
Fix 8: Test for Software Conflicts
Temporarily disable third-party utilities such as macro tools, key remappers, or overlay software.
Perform a clean boot to see if background applications are interfering.
If the keyboard works in Safe Mode, a startup program is likely causing the issue.
When to Suspect Hardware Failure
If none of the above solutions work and the keyboard does not type on another computer, the keyboard itself may be faulty and require replacement.
Conclusion
A keyboard not typing on Windows is usually caused by driver issues or incorrect system settings. Updating your keyboard drivers using Driver Sentry is the most effective first step, as it ensures proper compatibility and stability. If the problem persists, checking connections, system settings, services, and software conflicts can resolve most cases without replacing hardware. Keeping your drivers up to date is the key to preventing keyboard and other input device issues in the future.
