The keyboard is one of the most important input devices when using a computer or laptop. However, sometimes we experience problems where the keyboard cannot be typed or experiences annoying errors. This problem can be caused by various factors, such as hardware damage, software interference, or even system setting errors. In this article, we will discuss various ways to solve the problem of a keyboard that cannot be typed or errors in detail.

Check Keyboard Connection

Before trying other methods, make sure that the keyboard is properly connected to the computer or laptop. If you are using an external keyboard, check the USB cable or wireless connection.

Steps that can be taken

• If using a wired keyboard, try unplugging and replugging it into a different USB port.
• If using a wireless keyboard, make sure the batteries are in good condition and the Bluetooth device or USB dongle is properly connected.
• Try using the keyboard on another computer to make sure that the hardware is not problematic.

Restart Computer or Laptop

Sometimes, keyboard problems can be solved simply by restarting the computer. This can help clear any bugs or temporary system errors that may be preventing your keyboard from functioning.

How to restart properly

1. Click the Start button.
2. Select Restart.
3. Wait for the computer to restart and try typing using the keyboard.

Check if the Keyboard is Locked

Some laptops have a “Keyboard Lock” feature that can be accidentally activated and cause the keyboard to become unusable.

How to check and disable keyboard lock

• Try pressing the Fn + Num Lock or Fn + F1 to F12 keys (depending on the laptop brand) to disable the lock mode.
• If it still doesn’t work, try pressing the left Shift for a few seconds.

Clean the Keyboard from Dust and Dirt

Dust and dirt that accumulates can cause some keys to not function properly.

How to clean the keyboard

• Use a blower or can of compressed air to blow out dust between the keys.
• If possible, open the problematic key and clean it with a small brush or alcohol swab.
• For mechanical keyboards, make sure the switches are working properly.

Check and Update Keyboard Drivers

A corrupt or outdated driver can be the cause of a keyboard not working properly.

Steps to update drivers

1. Press Win + X, then select Device Manager.
2. Find Keyboards and right-click on the installed keyboard driver.
3. Select Update driver and let Windows search for the latest updates.
4. If the problem persists, try uninstalling the driver and restarting your computer so that Windows can reinstall it.

Use Windows’ Built-in Troubleshooter

Windows has an automatic troubleshooting feature that can help fix errors on your keyboard.

How to use Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
2. Select Update & Security.
3. Click Troubleshoot in the left panel.
4. Select Keyboard, then click Run the troubleshooter.
5. Follow the instructions that appear and wait for the process to complete.

Check Keyboard Settings in BIOS

If the keyboard does not work even before entering the operating system, there may be a problem with the BIOS.

How to check BIOS settings

1. Restart the computer and press the F2, F8, F12, or Delete key (depending on the laptop brand) to enter the BIOS.
2. Find the Keyboard or USB Configuration setting.
3. Make sure the USB Keyboard Support feature is active.
4. Save changes and exit BIOS.

Use a Virtual Keyboard

If the physical keyboard cannot be used at all, you can use a virtual keyboard temporarily.

How to open Virtual Keyboard

1. Press Win + R, then type osk and press Enter.
2. The virtual keyboard will appear on the screen.
3. Use the mouse or touchscreen to type.

Scan and Remove Viruses or Malware

Some malware can cause the keyboard to stop working or respond slowly.

How to check for viruses

1. Open Windows Security by pressing Win + I, then select Update & Security.
2. Click Windows Security, then select Virus & threat protection.
3. Run a Full scan to check for malware.
4. Delete or quarantine any detected viruses.

Try Using an External Keyboard

If all of the above steps don’t work, try using an external keyboard to see if the problem is with the built-in keyboard or the operating system.

How to use an external keyboard

• Plug in a USB keyboard or connect a Bluetooth keyboard to your computer.
• If the external keyboard works fine, it is likely that the internal keyboard is damaged and needs to be replaced.

Conclusion

The problem of a keyboard that cannot be typed or errors can be caused by various factors, ranging from hardware problems, software, to viruses. By following the steps above, you can try to solve this problem yourself before taking the device to a technician. If the keyboard still does not work after trying all these methods, there is likely physical damage that requires repair or replacement of the keyboard.

Hopefully this article is useful for those of you who are experiencing problems with your computer or laptop keyboard. If you have any questions or other experiences you want to share, don’t hesitate to leave a comment!