How do you connect a wireless mouse?

Not sure how to connect a wireless mouse? Don’t sweat it. We’re here just in the click of time. And our handy tips should work with every kind of wireless mouse out there. From the basic computer mice in your office, to top of the line gaming mice at your PC battlestation.

What connection does your mouse use?

Your wireless mouse will either use Bluetooth or a USB dongle to talk to your computer. Here’s how to get started with both of them…

Connecting with a USB dongle

1. Plug the USB dongle into any port on your laptop or desktop.
2. Turn on your wireless mouse. There should be a small button on the bottom or the side of it.
3. Wait for your computer to recognise the dongle. Once it’s detected, you can get clicking.

Connecting via Bluetooth

1. See if your computer has a Bluetooth feature. If it doesn’t you won’t get very far!
2. No Bluetooth? Get yourself a Bluetooth adapter. If your device has it already, you can ignore this step.
3. Switch on your mouse and put it into Bluetooth discovery mode. You’ll probably have to hold down a button.
4. If it doesn’t pair up straight away, check out our tips further down this page.
5. If your mouse has paired properly, you should be able to click, scroll and wiggle the cursor about.

How to fix mouse connection issues

Some wireless mice might have a few technical hiccups every now and then. But luckily, they’re easy to fix! Here are a few of the fastest ways to sort them out…

Install any drivers

Check the manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers. Drivers are basically a techy language that helps software and hardware to work together. Install them, and your mouse should now be on the same page as your computer.

Check the power and batteries

It could just be that your mouse has some old batteries in it. Or maybe you forgot to put it on for a quick charge last night. Either way, replace the batteries (if it uses them) or grab your charger. You’ll be able to spot pretty quickly if one of these are the issue.

Tweak the settings

Head over to your computer’s settings, then find the mouse and/or Bluetooth section. Your mouse should be recognised (and show up in a list), and if it’s connected, it’ll be selected as the ‘primary pointing device’. If it isn’t, try the two suggestions above first before you start diving into any advanced troubleshooting.

FAQs

How do I manually connect my Bluetooth mouse?

It’s easy peasy. Here’s how to connect a Bluetooth mouse if it doesn’t work automatically:

1. Turn on your mouse.
2. Put the mouse into pairing mode. If you’re having problems, check the manual.
3. Go to your computer’s Bluetooth settings.
4. Find your mouse in the list of available devices.
5. Click connect.
6. And you’re all done. Your mouse should be connected now.

Where is the pairing button on a wireless mouse?

The pairing button is usually on the side or bottom of the mouse. And it’ll either be a tiny button or a switch. Have a look for anything that’s labelled with ‘connect’, ‘pair’ or the Bluetooth logo. Then press it or slide it, and your mouse should be ready to pair. Simple.

Do you need a USB receiver to connect a wireless mouse?

Most wireless mice will use a little USB receiver to connect to your PC or laptop. Just plug it into any USB port and you’re good to go. Some of the more expensive ones only use Bluetooth though – letting you hook up your mouse by going completely USB-free.

How do I get my computer to recognise my wireless mouse?

If it’s got one, make sure your USB receiver is plugged in properly and turn on Bluetooth. Double check that it’s got fresh batteries too (unless it’s one that needs recharging instead). Once you’ve done all that, it should connect automatically.

Still having issues? Try restarting your computer or switch it off and on again. We know, we know, it’s the oldest IT trick in the book. But it’s there for a reason. Sometimes that’s all it takes to fix all kinds of technical gremlins!

Source: CURRYS