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My laptop keyboard is not working, no one key not any button.

syed badshah 0 Reputation points
2026-01-14T14:05:46.5533333+00:00

hp pro book cor i5-8th gen . i don't know either it is a software issue or a hardware issue.

Windows for business | Windows Server | Devices and deployment | System management components
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  1. Domic Vo 23,805 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-01-14T14:38:04.0933333+00:00

    Hello syed badshah,

    On an HP ProBook with an Intel Core i5 8th gen, the distinction between hardware and software failure on the keyboard can be narrowed down with a few precise checks. The most direct test is to connect an external USB keyboard. If that works consistently, the issue is isolated to the built-in keyboard hardware or its ribbon cable connection to the system board. If the external keyboard also fails intermittently, then you are dealing with a driver or OS-level fault.

    From the software side, the keyboard driver is managed under Device Manager > Keyboards > Standard PS/2 Keyboard. If you see error codes such as Code 19 or Code 39, that indicates a driver corruption. In that case, uninstalling the device and rebooting forces Windows to reload the driver from C:\Windows\System32\drivers\i8042prt.sys. If the driver reload does not resolve it, check Windows Update history for recent cumulative updates that may have affected input devices. Rolling back the update can confirm whether it is software-related.

    If the keyboard works in BIOS (pressing F10 at boot to enter HP BIOS setup), then the hardware is functional and the fault lies in Windows. If it does not respond even in BIOS, then the keyboard assembly or its connector is defective. On HP ProBooks, the keyboard is connected via a ZIF ribbon cable under the palm rest. A loose cable or oxidized contacts can cause complete failure. Reseating the cable is the first hardware step before replacing the keyboard.

    To summarize: test in BIOS to separate hardware from OS, check Device Manager for driver errors, and validate with an external keyboard. If BIOS input fails, you are looking at a hardware replacement. If BIOS input works but Windows does not, it is a driver or OS corruption.

    I hope you've found something useful here. If it helps you get more insight into the issue, it's appreciated to accept the answer. Should you have more questions, feel free to leave a message. Have a nice day!

    Domic Vo.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-01-14T14:06:27.84+00:00

    If your laptop keyboard is not working at all, it could be due to either a hardware issue or a software issue. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:

    1. Check for Debris: Sometimes, debris under the keys can cause issues. Try using compressed air to blow under the keys and wipe them with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
    2. External Keyboard Test: Connect an external keyboard to your laptop. If the external keyboard works fine, it may indicate a hardware problem with your laptop's keyboard. If the external keyboard also has issues, it might be a software or driver problem.
    3. Safe Mode: Boot your laptop in Safe Mode. If the keyboard works fine in Safe Mode, a third-party application may be interfering with the keyboard functionality.
    4. Driver Updates: Ensure that your keyboard drivers are up to date. Sometimes, issues can arise after a system update, so checking for driver updates or rolling back to a previous version may help.
    5. Fast Startup: If the keyboard doesn't work after powering up your laptop, it may be related to a bug in the system. Disabling Fast Startup in the Control Panel has resolved similar issues for some users.

    If none of these steps resolve the issue, it may be necessary to consult with a technician for further diagnosis and repair.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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