What to do when the keyboard is not working on your Microsoft Surface

You're in the zone, fully focused, fingers poised and ready to crush the workday when out of nowhere, the keyboard stops working on your Microsoft Surface®. There is no response, no matter what key you hit. 

Fret not. Whether you're looking for steps for fixing your Microsoft Surface camera or a shaking and flickering Surface Pro screen, Asurion Experts have the know-how to solve your tech care needs. Here are the steps to get your Surface keyword up and running again.

Check for physical damage

Before diving into technical troubleshooting, rule out any physical problems:

• Inspect the keyboard and connection: Ensure the keyboard is securely attached to your Surface. For detachable models, like the Surface Pro, remove and reconnect the keyboard to check for a proper connection.
• Clean the keyboard: Dirt and debris can sometimes inhibit the connection between the Surface and the keyboard. Unplug your device and detach the keyboard/type cover. Gently clean the connectors with compressed air or a soft, non-abrasive cloth, then reattach the keyboard.
• Examine for damage: Look for visible signs of wear, such as broken keys or a damaged connector. If damage is evident, you may need professional Surface repair or a replacement keyboard.

Restart your Surface

Let's start with the classic tech support 101, "Have you tried turning off and on your device?" Sometimes, a simple restart is all it takes to resolve minor glitches.

Restart via the Start menu:

1. Tap the Start button or press the Windows key.
2. Select Power and choose Restart.

Perform a hard restart (if unresponsive):

1. Press and hold the Power button for about 30 seconds.
2. Wait a few moments, then press the Power button again to power it back on.

Update your drivers and Windows

A common reason for a malfunctioning Surface laptop keyboard is outdated, faulty, or wrong drivers or software. The easiest way to resolve this issue is to update them both. Before you start:

• Make sure to attach the keyboard or type cover to the Surface.
• Plug in your Surface and let it charge to at least 40%. 
• Ensure you have a good internet connection. 

To update Surface drivers:

1. Open the Device Manager by typing it into the Windows search bar.
2. Expand the Keyboards section.
3. Right-click your keyboard driver (e.g., Surface Type Cover Filter Device) and select Update driver.

To update Windows:

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Select Check for updates and install any available updates.

Check your keyboard settings

Incorrect keyboard settings can cause functionality issues. Verify your settings:

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Navigate to Time & Language > Language.
3. Ensure the correct keyboard layout is selected.
4. Under Ease of Access, make sure no settings are inadvertently toggled that might disable the keyboard.

Turn off filter keys

If your keyboard partly works but doesn't capture repeated keystrokes, it could indicate unintended changes to your filter keys settings. Follow these steps to access keyboard settings:

• For Windows 11: Select Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.
• For Windows 10: Select Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard. 

Locate and click Keyboard in the Interaction section. Turn off the Filter keys toggle. 

Test with another device

If you’re using a detachable or Bluetooth keyboard, try connecting it to another device to check if the problem lies with the keyboard itself or your Surface. If it works on another device, the issue may be software-related on your Surface.

Perform a system reset

If none of the above methods resolve the issue, a system reset might help. But first, be sure to back up any important files or photos on your computer because this step will restore your Surface to its original settings.

1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
2. Under Reset this PC, click Get started and follow the prompts.

With these steps, you should be able to resolve most Surface keyboard issues and get back to being productive.