If the keyboard cannot be entered, first check whether the connection is normal, try re-plug or test the battery; secondly switch the keyboard layout or language settings; then restart the device or update the driver; finally check for physical damage or key stagnation. Troubleshooting in sequence can quickly resolve most faults.

If your keyboard isn't typing, it can feel frustrating fast—especially if you're in the middle of something important. The good news is, most issues have a quick fix once you know what to check. Here's how to figure out what's going on and get back to typing with minimal downtime.

Check for Basic Issues First

Before diving into complex troubleshooting, start with the obvious. Sometimes the problem is simple and easy to overlook.

• Is your keyboard plugged in properly (if wired)? Try unplugging and plugging it back in.
• If it's wireless, check the battery level or try reconnecting via Bluetooth or USB receiver.
• Test it on another device if possible—this helps determine if the issue is with the keyboard itself or your computer.

Also, make sure no keys are physically stuck or jammed. Dust, crumbs, or a slightly jammed key can prevent normal typing function.

Switch Keyboard Layout or Language Settings

Sometimes your system might accidentally switch to a different input language or keyboard layout, making it seems like nothing is working when in reality, it's just interpreting your keystrokes differently.

On Windows:

• Press Win Space to cycle through installed input languages.
• Go to Settings > Time & Language > Language and check what layouts are installed.

On Mac:

• Click the Input menu in the top-right corner of the menu bar and switch layouts manually.

This often gets overlooked but can explain why certain keys aren't responding as expected.

Try Restarting or Reinstalling Drivers

If basic checks don't help, restarting your computer can resolve many software glitches. If that still doesn't work, especially on Windows, outdated or corrupted drivers could be the culprit.

To update your keyboard driver:

• Open Device Manager .
• Expand the Keyboards section.
• Right-click your keyboard and choose Update driver .
• Alternatively, uninstall it and restart your PC—Windows will usually reinstall the driver automatically.

This step often fixes weird behavior like missing letters, keys not responding, or random characters appearing.

Test Individual Keys and Look for Physical Damage

Some keyboards develop dead zones over time—especially mechanical ones or those used heavily. You can test this using online keyboard testers like keyboardtester.com or built-in OS tools.

If only certain keys aren't working:

• Check for visible damage or debris under the keys.
• For mechanical keyboards, try removing the keycap and cleaning underneath.
• On laptops, spilled liquids or wound-out membranes are common causes—these may require professional repair.

Most keyboard issues fall into one of these categories: connection problems, software settings, driver issues, or physical wear. Tackle them one at a time, and you'll likely find a solution without too much hassle.

The above is the detailed content of What to Do When My Keyboard Won't Type. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!