Authored by Darlene Antonelli, MA
Last updated: November 2, 2024
Verified facts
If the touchpad on a Windows laptop is not functioning or has been disabled, this guide will show you how to activate it. You’ll also find troubleshooting steps for Mac laptops and tips on how to activate your touchpad without a mouse.
Activating the Touchpad on a Windows Laptop
Step 1: Go to Windows Settings
Click the Start Menu icon to bring up the gear icon and open Windows Settings.
If you don’t have an external mouse, you can still use your keyboard:
- Press the Windows key.
- Type “touchpad”.
- Press Enter to open Touchpad Settings directly.
Alternatively, some laptops have a function key (e.g., FN + F1–F12) to toggle the touchpad. Check your laptop’s manual for this shortcut.
Step 2: Select Devices
Click Devices, typically displayed next to an icon of a keyboard and speaker in the second column.
Step 3: Click the Touchpad Option
Click Touchpad from the left-hand menu. It’s accompanied by a touchpad icon.
Step 4: Toggle the Touchpad On
Click the switch under “Touchpad” to turn it On.
You can also adjust other settings like cursor speed here.
If you’re using only the keyboard:
- Press the Tab key repeatedly until the toggle switch is highlighted.
- Press the Space bar to turn it on.
Additional Resources
- Surface Touchpad Use and Settings – Microsoft
- Dell Touchpad On/Off Guide
- Mac Help – Trackpad Settings
- Enable Trackpad on Mac
- Fix Touchpad Issues in Windows 10
In Other Languages
This guide is also available in Portuguese.
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