Keyboard Not Working on Mac

Quick Fix Summary

• Check keyboard settings in System Preferences
• Verify keyboard layout
• Reset keyboard preferences
• Check for macOS updates
• Test keyboard in different apps

Why This Happens

macOS includes strict privacy controls that can block keyboard access. The system requires explicit permission for applications to use your keyboard, and these settings can be reset after updates or changed accidentally.

Driver issues are another common cause. macOS may not automatically install the correct drivers for your keyboard, especially for USB devices or specialized equipment. Outdated drivers can cause detection problems or poor performance.

System conflicts occur when multiple applications try to access the keyboard simultaneously. macOS allows only one application to use the keyboard at a time, so background apps or previous sessions can block access.

Hardware problems include loose connections, damaged cables, or keyboard hardware failure. Physical issues are less common but should be checked if software solutions don't work.

Step-by-Step Fix Guide

Step 1: Check Permissions and Settings

macOS requires explicit permission for keyboard access. Verify permissions are enabled in system settings.

• Open macOS settings or preferences
• Navigate to Privacy or Security settings
• Find Keyboard permissions
• Ensure access is enabled
• Check that your application is listed and allowed
• Restart your computer if needed

Open System Preferences → Keyboard. Check Input Sources and verify your keyboard layout. Go to System Preferences → Accessibility → Keyboard and check for any enabled features that might interfere. Reset keyboard preferences if needed.

Step 2: Verify Device Selection

macOS may be using the wrong keyboard or no device at all. Verify the correct device is selected.

• Open system sound or camera settings
• Check the list of available devices
• Select the correct keyboard
• Test the device to confirm it works
• Set it as the default if available

If your keyboard doesn't appear in the list, it may not be detected. See Step 3 for driver troubleshooting.

Step 3: Update Drivers

Outdated or missing drivers prevent keyboard detection. Update drivers through system settings or Device Manager.

• Open Device Manager or system settings
• Find keyboard section
• Right-click your device and select Update driver
• Choose automatic driver search
• Wait for the system to find and install drivers
• Restart your computer after updating

If your keyboard doesn't appear in Device Manager, check other sections like "Sound, video and game controllers" or "Universal Serial Bus controllers" for USB devices.

If automatic search doesn't find drivers, visit your computer or keyboard manufacturer's website. Download the latest drivers for macOS and install them manually.

Step 4: Close Conflicting Applications

Only one application can access your keyboard at a time. Other apps may be blocking access.

• Close other applications using the keyboard
• Check system tray for background apps
• End processes in Task Manager if needed
• Restart your browser if using web applications
• Check for browser extensions that might block access

Some applications don't release keyboard access when closed. Restart your computer to clear all keyboard locks if needed.

Step 5: Check Physical Connections

Loose or damaged connections prevent device detection. Verify all physical connections are secure.

• Unplug USB devices and firmly reconnect them
• Try a different USB port if available
• Check cables for visible damage
• Test the device on another computer if possible
• Check for physical mute switches if applicable

If the keyboard works on another computer, the issue is software-related. If it doesn't work anywhere, the keyboard may be faulty.

Platform-Specific Fixes

macOS

macOS has specific settings for keyboard access. Follow these detailed steps for macOS.

Open System Preferences → Keyboard. Check Input Sources and verify your keyboard layout. Go to System Preferences → Accessibility → Keyboard and check for any enabled features that might interfere. Reset keyboard preferences if needed.

• Verify settings are saved correctly
• Restart the application after changing settings
• Test the keyboard to confirm it works
• Check for macOS updates

Advanced Troubleshooting

If basic fixes don't work, try these advanced troubleshooting steps.

• Run system troubleshooter for keyboard issues
• Reset keyboard settings to defaults
• Check for system updates
• Reinstall keyboard drivers
• Test in safe mode if available
• Check system logs for error messages

If none of these steps work, the issue may be hardware-related. Test your keyboard on another computer to confirm. Contact the manufacturer if the device is under warranty.

Prevention Tips

Keep macOS updated. System updates often include driver updates that can fix keyboard issues.

Don't disable keyboard access in privacy settings unless necessary. macOS remembers your choice and may block access to new applications.

Close applications properly instead of just minimizing them. Background apps can hold keyboard access and prevent other applications from using it.

Regularly update drivers through system settings or Device Manager. Outdated drivers cause more problems after major system updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Use the online keyboard test to confirm everything is working.