The two ways to connect a mouse
A mouse connects to your computer in one of two ways: through a USB cable that plugs directly into a port on your computer, or wirelessly using a small receiver that sits in a USB port. Wired mice work when ready after you plug them in. Wireless mice need you to insert batteries and sometimes press a button to pair them with the receiver before they work.
Which type you have depends on what you bought or what came with your computer. Both work the same way once connected — you move the mouse on a flat surface and the cursor on your screen follows. The main difference is that a wired mouse has a cord attached, while a wireless mouse sits freely on your desk.
Key Takeaways
- Wired mice plug into a USB port with a cable and work right away without any setup.
- Wireless mice need batteries installed and usually require pressing a pairing button before they connect to the receiver.
- The receiver for a wireless mouse is a small device that plugs into a USB port and stays there permanently.
- If your mouse does not move after connecting, check that batteries are installed, the receiver is fully inserted, or the cable is pushed in all the way.
Connecting a wired mouse
Find the USB port on your computer. On a desktop, these are usually on the back of the tower, though some newer desktops have ports on the front. On a laptop, USB ports are on the sides. The port is a small rectangular opening about the size of your pinky fingernail.
Take the cable attached to the mouse and push the flat rectangular connector into the USB port until it stops. You should feel it click or seat firmly. The mouse is now connected and ready to use. Move it around on a flat surface like a desk or mousepad and you should see the cursor move on your screen.
If the cursor does not move, try unplugging the cable and plugging it back in. If it still does not work, the port itself might not be working — try a different USB port on your computer.
Connecting a wireless mouse
First, install the batteries. Flip the mouse over and look for a battery compartment, usually a small panel on the bottom. Slide or unclip it open, insert the batteries (most wireless mice use two AA or AAA batteries), and close the compartment. Check which direction the batteries go — there are usually + and − symbols inside showing the correct orientation.
Next, plug the receiver into a USB port on your computer. The receiver is a small rectangular or rounded device, usually about the size of a USB drive. Push it into any available USB port until it is fully seated. Leave it plugged in permanently — you do not unplug it each time you use the mouse.
Now turn on the mouse. Most wireless mice have a power switch on the bottom. Flip it to the on position. Within a few seconds, the mouse should connect automatically to the receiver. You will usually see a light on the receiver or the mouse turn on or change color. Move the mouse and the cursor should follow on your screen.
If the mouse does not connect, look for a small button on both the mouse and the receiver labeled "Pair" or "Connect." Press the button on the receiver first, then press the button on the mouse within a few seconds. This tells them to find each other. Wait a few seconds and try moving the mouse again.
Troubleshooting a mouse that will not work
If you plugged in a wired mouse and nothing happens, unplug it and try a different USB port. Some ports stop working over time. If you have tried two or three different ports and the mouse still does not work, the mouse itself may be broken.
For a wireless mouse, the most common problem is dead or missing batteries. Open the battery compartment and check that both batteries are there and facing the right direction. If the batteries are old, replace them with new ones. Wireless mice also sometimes lose connection if the receiver is too far away or blocked by metal objects. Try moving the receiver closer to the mouse or removing any metal items between them.
If the receiver has a light on it, that light tells you the status. A steady light usually means the mouse is connected. A blinking light usually means the mouse is not connected yet. If the light is off, the receiver may not be getting power — try a different USB port.
When to use a mousepad
A mousepad is a flat, slightly textured surface that helps the mouse track your movements smoothly. It is not required — you can use a mouse on any flat surface like a desk or table. However, a mousepad works better on shiny surfaces like glass or polished wood, where a mouse can sometimes skip or move unpredictably.
If you are using your mouse on a desk without a mousepad and it feels jerky or does not respond smoothly, try adding a mousepad. Most mousepads are inexpensive and come in many sizes. A small one is fine for most people.
Wireless vs. wired: which should you choose
A wired mouse is simpler because it has no batteries to replace and no pairing to set up. It works the moment you plug it in. The downside is the cable can get tangled or caught on things, and it limits how far you can move the mouse from your computer.
A wireless mouse gives you more freedom to move around your desk without a cable in the way. The tradeoff is you have to remember to replace batteries every few months, and occasionally the connection drops and you have to re-pair it. For most people, wireless is more convenient once it is set up, but wired is more reliable if you want zero maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a mouse on a laptop?
Yes. Plug a wired mouse into any USB port on the side of your laptop, or plug the wireless receiver into a USB port. Your laptop will work with both types. Many people use an external mouse with a laptop because the trackpad can be uncomfortable for long periods of work.
What if I lose the wireless receiver?
You will need to buy a new receiver. Most wireless mice are sold with a specific receiver that pairs only with that mouse model. You cannot use a receiver from a different brand or model. Check the mouse packaging or the manufacturer's website to order a replacement receiver.
Can I use multiple mice on one computer?
Yes. You can plug in a wired mouse and a wireless receiver at the same time, or plug in two wired mice. Only one cursor appears on screen, but you can switch between them. This is useful if you want to use a mouse sometimes and a trackpad other times.
Why does my wireless mouse keep disconnecting?
The most common cause is weak batteries. Replace them with fresh ones. If that does not help, try moving the receiver closer to the mouse or removing metal objects between them. If the mouse still disconnects, the receiver or mouse may be damaged and need replacement.
Do I need to turn off my mouse when I am not using it?
It is not required, but turning off a wireless mouse extends battery life. Most wireless mice have a power switch on the bottom. If you use your computer every day, you can leave it on. If you take breaks of several hours or more, turning it off saves battery.