Can’t get into desktop after Microsoft update, mouse works but keyboard doesn’t

Troubleshooting Keyboard Accessibility Issues Post-Windows Update: A Step-by-Step Guide

Experiencing input device issues after a Windows update can be frustrating, especially when it hampers your ability to log into your system. Recently, many users have reported scenarios where, following a Windows restart prompted by an update, their keyboard stops registering keystrokes—particularly the letter keys—while other peripherals like the mouse continue to function properly. If you find yourself in a similar situation, this guide aims to provide effective troubleshooting steps to resolve the problem and regain access to your desktop.

Understanding the Issue

In this specific case, the user reported that:

After a Windows update forced a restart, the keyboard’s letter keys became unresponsive.
The mouse, including wireless and wired options, continues to work without issues.
The number keys on the keyboard still produce input, but alphabetic characters do not.
The problem prevents progressing past the login screen.
Multiple keyboards, including new ones, have been tested without success.

Common Causes

Such problems can occur due to:

Driver issues or corruption post-update.
Keyboard driver conflicts or outdated drivers.
Input method or driver updates incompatible with existing hardware.
Corrupted Windows system files following the update.
Hardware malfunctions unrelated to the software update.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

1. Verify Basic Hardware Functionality

Confirm that the keyboard works on another device.
Test different USB ports if using a wired keyboard.
Use a different wireless receiver or Bluetooth pairing if applicable.

2. Attempt Keyboard Navigation and Input

Use the mouse to click the ‘Ease of Access’ keyboard icon on the login screen to enable on-screen keyboard.
Check if the on-screen keyboard responds to input—this can be a temporary workaround until the underlying issue is resolved.