Mouse Cursor Freezing? 10 Quick Fixes

Quick Fix

Unplug your mouse, wait 10 seconds, and plug it into a different USB port. For wireless mice, replace the batteries and re-sync the receiver. This resolves most temporary freezing issues.

Understanding Mouse Freezing Problems

When your mouse cursor freezes, it stops responding to movement while the computer continues working. You might be able to use keyboard shortcuts, but the mouse is stuck. This can happen randomly or consistently.

Common causes include USB port issues, outdated drivers, wireless interference, power management settings, or system resource problems. Hardware failure is less common but possible.

Most mouse freezing is fixable with driver updates or connection changes.

Method 1: Try a Different USB Port

Unplug your mouse
Wait 10 seconds
Plug into a different USB port
Prefer ports directly on the computer, not a hub
Try USB 2.0 ports if USB 3.0 causes issues
Test mouse movement

Method 2: Replace Batteries (Wireless Mouse)

Low batteries cause intermittent freezing
Replace with fresh batteries
Also try re-syncing the wireless receiver
Press the connect button on mouse and receiver
Move mouse closer to receiver
Check if freezing continues

Method 3: Update Mouse Drivers

Press Windows + X > Device Manager
Expand Mice and other pointing devices
Right-click your mouse > Update driver
Select Search automatically
Restart after update
Also check manufacturer’s website for drivers

Method 4: Disable USB Power Management

Open Device Manager
Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers
Right-click USB Root Hub > Properties
Go to Power Management tab
Uncheck “Allow computer to turn off this device”
Repeat for all USB Root Hubs
Restart computer

Method 5: Check for Resource Issues

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc for Task Manager
Check CPU and Disk usage
If at 100%, system is overloaded
End unnecessary processes
Mouse can freeze when system is overwhelmed
Wait for system to calm down

Method 6: Disable Enhance Pointer Precision

Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mouse
Click Additional mouse settings
Go to Pointer Options tab
Uncheck Enhance pointer precision
Click Apply
This mouse acceleration can cause issues

Method 7: Run Hardware Troubleshooter

Press Windows + R
Type msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
Press Enter
Click Next to run troubleshooter
Apply suggested fixes
Test mouse after completion

Method 8: Try a Different Mouse

Test with another mouse if available
If new mouse works fine, original is faulty
If new mouse also freezes, it’s a computer issue
This isolates hardware vs software problem
Borrow a mouse to test

Preventing Mouse Freezing

Keep mouse drivers updated
Replace wireless mouse batteries proactively
Don’t use USB hubs for mouse if possible
Keep mouse sensor and pad clean
Ensure good wireless signal (no interference)

FAQ

Why does my mouse freeze but keyboard still works?

Mouse and keyboard use different drivers and USB channels. Mouse-specific driver issues, USB port problems, or wireless interference can affect just the mouse.

Why does my wireless mouse keep disconnecting?

Usually low batteries, interference from other wireless devices, or USB receiver too far away. Keep receiver within 3 feet of mouse if possible.

Can a bad mousepad cause freezing?

Yes, especially for optical mice. Reflective, glass, or extremely smooth surfaces can confuse the sensor. Try a different surface or proper mousepad.

Why does mouse freeze during gaming?

Games stress USB polling. Try different USB ports, disable USB power saving, or lower game settings. High-end gaming mice sometimes need specific drivers.

Should I use wired or wireless mouse?

Wired is more reliable with no battery or connection issues. Modern wireless is very good but can have interference problems. For gaming, wired is often preferred.

How do I navigate without a mouse?

Use Tab to move between elements, Enter to select, and arrow keys to navigate. Windows + Tab opens task view. Alt + Tab switches windows. Right-click key opens context menus.