My Apple keyboard suddenly stopped working on my Mac – here’s how I fixed it.
Checking and Fixing Connection Issues
1. Check the physical connection of the keyboard to the Mac. Make sure the USB or Thunderbolt cable is securely plugged into the appropriate port.
2. Restart your Mac to see if that resolves the issue. Click on the Apple logo in the menu bar, then select Restart from the drop-down menu.
3. Check if the keyboard is working on another device. This will help determine if the issue is with the keyboard itself or the Mac.
4. Try using a different USB port on your Mac. Sometimes the issue may be with the port rather than the keyboard.
5. Check the keyboard settings in System Preferences. Go to the Apple menu, select System Preferences, then choose Keyboard. Make sure the correct keyboard layout is selected.
6. Reset the NVRAM on your Mac. Shut down the Mac, then turn it back on and immediately press and hold Command + Option + P + R until you hear the startup sound twice.
7. Update your macOS to the latest version. Click on the Apple logo in the menu bar, select System Preferences, then choose Software Update to check for any available updates.
Cleaning and Battery Check Steps
- Clean the keyboard:
- Turn off the Mac and unplug the keyboard.
- Use a can of compressed air to blow out any debris between the keys.
- Gently wipe the keys and surface of the keyboard with a damp cloth.
- Allow the keyboard to dry completely before plugging it back in.
- Check the battery:
- If your keyboard uses batteries, replace them with fresh ones.
- Make sure the batteries are inserted correctly, following the +/- signs.
- Check the battery connections for any corrosion or dirt buildup.
- If the issue persists, try using a different set of batteries.
Restarting and Resetting Procedures
1. Restart your Mac: Sometimes a simple restart can fix minor issues with your keyboard. Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select “Restart.”
2. Reset the PRAM/NVRAM: To reset the Parameter RAM (PRAM) or Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory (NVRAM), shut down your Mac and then turn it back on. Immediately press and hold Command + Option + P + R until you hear the startup sound twice.
3. Reset the SMC: To reset the System Management Controller (SMC), shut down your Mac. Press and hold the Shift + Control + Option keys on the left side of the built-in keyboard, then press the power button simultaneously. Hold these keys and the power button for 10 seconds, then release them.
If after trying these steps your Apple keyboard still isn’t working, you may need to consider other troubleshooting options or contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider for assistance.
Updating Software and Handling Third-Party Apps
To fix your Apple keyboard that has stopped working on your Mac, the first step is to check for any software updates that may be available for your operating system. Updating your macOS to the latest version can often fix compatibility issues with your keyboard.
Next, it’s important to ensure that any third-party apps you have installed are not causing the problem. Sometimes, these apps can interfere with the keyboard’s functionality. Try disabling any recently installed apps to see if that resolves the issue.
If your keyboard issue persists, you can try resetting the keyboard settings on your Mac. Go to System Preferences, then Keyboard, and click on the “Restore Defaults” button. This can sometimes fix minor software glitches that are causing the problem.
Another troubleshooting step is to check the physical connection of your keyboard to your Mac. Make sure the USB or Thunderbolt connection is secure and that there are no visible signs of damage to the cable or port.
If you are using a wireless keyboard, try replacing the batteries or charging the keyboard if it is rechargeable. Sometimes, a low battery can cause connectivity issues that may appear as if the keyboard has stopped working.
FAQs
How do you fix an unresponsive Mac keyboard?
To fix an unresponsive Mac keyboard, you can try disconnecting and reconnecting the keyboard to ensure the connector is properly inserted. If the issue persists, try connecting the keyboard to a different USB port or another Mac to see if the problem is resolved. If not, connecting a different keyboard to the Mac can help identify if the issue is with the keyboard or the computer itself.
Why did my keyboard stop working?
Your keyboard may have stopped working due to various reasons. It could be because the computer is frozen or if the keyboard is disconnected, whether it was unplugged, ran out of batteries, or the wireless connection was disrupted.
What to do if your Apple keyboard won’t connect?
If your Apple keyboard won’t connect, make sure Bluetooth is turned on. If you don’t have a USB mouse, you can use Spotlight search to turn on Bluetooth.
