How to Fix Mouse Movement Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If your mouse pointer is not moving on Windows 11, it can be very frustrating. This problem can happen for several reasons, from simple hardware issues to software glitches. Fortunately, most causes are easy to fix with basic troubleshooting steps.

In this guide, we will walk you through clear and simple methods to get your mouse working again. No advanced knowledge is needed, and each step includes explanations to help you understand why it’s important.

By following these instructions carefully, you should be able to restore your mouse functionality quickly. Let’s start with a few quick checks before moving on to detailed solutions.

These steps apply whether you are using a wireless or wired mouse on Windows 11.

Quick Note: What to Check Before Troubleshooting

Check the physical connection: Ensure your mouse is properly plugged in if it’s wired, or that the batteries are charged if it’s wireless.
Try a different USB port: Sometimes a port can be faulty. Plug your mouse into another port to rule this out.
Test the mouse on another device: This helps confirm whether the mouse itself is working or if the issue is with your PC.
Restart your computer: A simple reboot can fix many temporary glitches that may affect mouse movement.

Step 1: Check for Hardware Issues

Before diving into software fixes, it’s important to eliminate hardware problems. If your mouse isn’t physically working, no software change will help.

For wired mice, unplug the mouse and look for any damage on the cable or connector.
For wireless mice, check if the batteries are properly inserted and have enough power. Replace them if you’re unsure.
Try using the mouse on another computer. If it doesn’t work there either, the mouse may be faulty and need replacement.

Step 2: Restart Windows Explorer

Windows Explorer controls the desktop and mouse pointer visuals. Sometimes restarting it can fix mouse movement problems.

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Find Windows Explorer in the list of processes.
Right-click on it and select Restart.
Your taskbar and desktop will briefly disappear and then reload. Check if the mouse pointer moves now.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall Mouse Drivers

Device drivers allow Windows to communicate with your mouse. Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause issues with mouse movement.

Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Expand the Mice and other pointing devices section.
Right-click your mouse device and choose Update driver.
Select Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts.
If updating does not help, right-click again and select Uninstall device.
Restart your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall the mouse driver.

Why this matters: Drivers control how your mouse communicates with the system. Fixing driver issues often resolves pointer problems.

Step 4: Check Touchpad Settings (For Laptops)

If you are using a laptop, sometimes the touchpad settings may interfere with your mouse movement.

Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
Go to Bluetooth & devices > Touchpad.
Make sure the touchpad is enabled.
Scroll down to Touchpad sensitivity and set it to a medium or high level.
If you use an external mouse, try disabling the touchpad temporarily to see if it helps.

Step 5: Disable Enhance Pointer Precision

Windows 11 has a feature called Enhance Pointer Precision that sometimes causes erratic mouse behavior.

Open Settings (Win + I).
Go to Bluetooth & devices > Mouse.
Click on Additional mouse settings on the right side.
In the Mouse Properties window, go to the Pointer Options tab.
Uncheck the box for Enhance pointer precision.
Click Apply and then OK.

This can improve pointer accuracy and smoothness in some cases.

Step 6: Run the Windows Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix mouse-related issues.

Open Settings (Win + I).
Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Find Keyboard and Mouse or just Mouse troubleshooter and click Run.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Step 7: Check for Windows Updates

Sometimes, bugs in Windows can cause mouse issues. Updating your system can fix these bugs.

Open Settings (Win + I).
Go to Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
Download and install any available updates, then restart your PC.

Alternative Method: Use Keyboard to Navigate

If your mouse isn’t working at all, you can use keyboard shortcuts to navigate while troubleshooting.

Tab moves between clickable items.
Enter selects or opens items.
Alt + Tab switches between apps.
Win + I opens Settings.

Using your keyboard can help you apply fixes even without mouse control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my mouse pointer frozen but the cursor is visible?

This can happen due to a software glitch or driver issue. Restarting Windows Explorer or updating drivers usually fixes it.

How can I tell if my mouse hardware is faulty?

Try connecting the mouse to another computer. If it doesn’t work there either, the mouse is likely damaged or dead.

Will uninstalling the mouse driver cause problems?

No, Windows will reinstall the driver automatically after you restart, which can fix corrupted driver issues.

Can a virus cause mouse movement problems?

Yes, malware can interfere with input devices. Running a full antivirus scan is recommended if you suspect infection.

Why does my mouse move erratically after updating Windows?

Sometimes updates change driver compatibility. Try rolling back the driver or checking for new updates that fix the issue.

When Nothing Works

If you have followed all the steps above and your mouse still does not move, consider these final options:

Try a different mouse: Borrow or buy a new mouse to test if your device is faulty.
Use System Restore: Restore your PC to a point when the mouse was working correctly. Search for Create a restore point in Windows.
Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for personalized help.
Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, reinstalling Windows 11 can fix deep system issues affecting input devices.

Conclusion

Mouse movement issues on Windows 11 are common but usually easy to fix. Start by checking your hardware and connections, then move on to software solutions like restarting Windows Explorer, updating drivers, and adjusting settings.

Using the built-in troubleshooter and keeping your system updated can prevent many problems. Remember, you can always navigate with your keyboard to apply fixes when the mouse is unresponsive.

By following this step-by-step guide, you should be able to restore your mouse functionality and get back to work quickly.