'HP Touchpad Not Working' Issue

The 'HP Touchpad Not Working' issue is an input device problem where the sensor doesn't respond to user touch (cursor movement, mouse clicks, etc.) correctly. Although it can be a side effect of infection by Trojans and other threats, it usually results from settings or updates errors. Users of HP laptops, notebooks, tablets, and stand-alone touchpads should be able to resolve this problem and restore the touchpad's functionality through a series of free and user-friendly solutions.

Initial Troubleshooting for HP Touchpad Functionality

The 'HP Touchpad Not Working' issue is a common problem that impedes users from accessing even the most basic interface functions but is usually resolvable once overcoming these early hurdles. Users struggling with navigating the UI without access to mouse features during a touchpad malfunction should consider temporarily supplementing their computers or devices with a corded or wireless mouse.

Accidentally deactivating the touchpad is a frequent user error, identifiable by the glowing orange light on the HP product. Double-tapping the touchpad's top left corner should re-enable the touch input device if it was user-disabled.

Physical damage to the device – usually, a spilled beverage – also can cause the 'HP Touchpad Not Working' issue. In these cases, turning the computer off as soon as possible prevents any further water damage. Users confident in their skills may consider unscrewing the device, removing the battery, manually cleaning the touchpad's interior, and waiting for all moisture to evaporate before reassembly.

Users also can enable the touchpad from inside the Windows interface manually. Open Settings (the Windows key + I shortcut will open it for users without a mouse) and tab or scroll to the touchpad device. From there, enabling and disabling the device is possible, although rebooting may be a requirement for completing the system change.

Touchpads: Another Place Where Updates Matter

Even in functions as low-level as primary user interface input, software updates matter. Users handling or mishandling them can be the difference between a working and a non-working device. HP products should usually come with drivers for their touchpads, guaranteeing a certain degree of functionality. Users always should install updates to their devices as appropriate and may download them from the official HP website.

Windows updates also may be useful, although users should be wary of relying on auto-detection or letting Microsoft updates override HP drivers. As good practice, they also should remove potentially-conflicting UI devices, such as a mouse, before rebooting the computer and testing the touchpad again.

Most of the above solutions also benefit from rebooting after any significant system changes, keeping the warning concerning input devices in mind.

Although malware researchers see threats 'hijacking' or monitoring mouse input, for example, the 'HP Touchpad Not Working' issue isn't a symptom of typical security issues occasionally. Users should only have concern for the safety of their PC if it occurs along with other problems.

The 'HP Touchpad Not Working' issue isn't a joke for users who find themselves without access to mouse clicks or other fundamental interactions suddenly. Keeping a level head and not letting frustration overrule common sense (or awareness of keyboard shortcuts) is the most crucial requirement for resolving problems with user interfaces becoming crippled temporarily.