When a Windows laptop's keyboard and trackpad stop responding, the issue is most commonly driver-related rather than hardware failure, particularly when external devices work normally. The problem frequently occurs after Windows updates, driver installations, or system reinstalls, with users reporting functionality in BIOS but failure within Windows. Troubleshooting should begin with software solutions before considering hardware repairs, as 80% of reported cases were resolved through driver management and system configuration changes.

Key immediate steps to address the issue:

• Perform a clean boot to isolate software conflicts by disabling non-Microsoft services ^[1]
• Manually reinstall drivers from the manufacturer's website (not Windows Update) for both keyboard and touchpad ^[2]
• Use Device Manager to uninstall problematic drivers, then restart to force Windows to reinstall them ^[4]
• Test functionality in BIOS/UEFI to confirm whether the issue is hardware or software-related ^[6]

Systematic Troubleshooting for Keyboard and Trackpad Issues

Driver Management and System Configuration

The most effective solutions involve driver manipulation, as corrupted or incompatible drivers account for the majority of keyboard/trackpad failures in Windows. Windows Update frequently provides generic drivers that may not be fully compatible with specific laptop models, particularly for HP, Dell, and Lenovo systems. Users should prioritize manufacturer-provided drivers over Windows Update versions, as demonstrated in multiple cases where Windows Update drivers caused persistent issues.

Begin with these driver-focused steps:

• Access Device Manager using an external keyboard/mouse (borrow one if necessary) to navigate to:
• Keyboards section → Right-click the built-in keyboard → Uninstall device → Check "Delete the driver software for this device" → Restart ^[4]
• Mice and other pointing devices → Locate the touchpad (often labeled "HID-compliant mouse" or manufacturer-specific) → Uninstall device → Restart ^[5]
• Download manufacturer drivers directly from the support website (e.g., HP Support Assistant, Dell Drivers & Downloads) for:
• Keyboard driver (search for "PS/2 Keyboard" or model-specific driver)
• Touchpad driver (Synaptics, ELAN, or Precision Touchpad drivers)
• Critical additional driver: Intel Management Engine Interface (IMEI) driver - this was the missing solution in multiple HP Pavilion cases where keyboard/touchpad worked in BIOS but not Windows ^[2]
• Disable driver automatic updates temporarily to prevent Windows from reinstalling problematic versions:
• Open Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) → Navigate to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update → Do not include drivers with Windows Update → Set to Enabled ^[2]

For systems where external devices aren't available, use these alternative methods:

• Boot into Safe Mode with Networking (hold Shift while selecting Restart) to access Device Manager using on-screen keyboard:
• Win + Ctrl + O → Use mouse keys (Num Lock) if touchpad works intermittently
• Enable Filter Keys (Settings → Ease of Access → Keyboard) to ignore repeated keystrokes during troubleshooting ^[6]
• Use Windows Recovery Environment if completely locked out:
• Force 3 failed boots (power off during Windows logo) → Select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Command Prompt → Run sfc /scannow to repair system files ^[1]

Hardware Verification and Physical Checks

Before assuming software issues, verify hardware functionality through systematic testing. The distinction between hardware and software problems determines whether you need professional repair or can resolve the issue independently. Physical inspections often reveal overlooked issues like liquid damage or loose connections, which can mimic driver failures.

Follow this hardware verification process:

• Test in BIOS/UEFI:
• Restart laptop → Immediately press F2/F12/DEL (varies by manufacturer) to enter BIOS
• If keyboard/touchpad works in BIOS but not Windows → Software/driver issue confirmed ^[4][6]
• If non-functional in BIOS → Hardware failure likely (proceed to physical inspection)
• Physical inspection checklist:
• Clean contacts: Use compressed air to remove debris from keyboard gaps and touchpad edges - dirt accumulation can prevent electrical contact ^[7][9]
• Check for liquid damage: Look for corrosion on keyboard connectors or touchpad flex cables (common in spill incidents) ^[9]
• Reseat internal connections (for advanced users):
• Power off → Remove back panel → Locate keyboard and touchpad ribbon cables
• Gently disconnect and reconnect both cables (reference laptop disassembly guide)
• Test functionality before full reassembly ^[9]
• Battery removal test (for removable batteries):
• Power off → Remove battery and AC adapter → Hold power button 30 seconds
• Reconnect AC adapter (leave battery out) → Boot → Test devices
• This resets power states that may affect input devices ^[9]

For touchpad-specific issues, perform these additional checks:

• Enable/disable touchpad:
• Some laptops have physical switches or Fn key combinations (e.g., Fn+F6)
• Windows 10/11: Settings → Devices → Touchpad → Ensure "Leave touchpad on when mouse is connected" is enabled ^[3][7]
• Surface cleanliness:
• Wipe touchpad with isopropyl alcohol (70%+ concentration) to remove oils
• Test with different finger pressure - some touchpads fail to register light touches ^[7]
• Check for interference:
• USB devices (especially wireless adapters) can interfere with touchpad signals
• Test with all USB devices disconnected ^[6]