First identify whether the mouse uses a small USB receiver or Bluetooth, because the connection steps differ.
Mouse with a USB receiver
- Install fresh batteries or charge the mouse, then switch it On.
- Find the small USB receiver—often stored inside the mouse’s battery compartment.
- Plug the receiver directly into a USB port on the computer.
- Wait briefly while Windows configures it, then move the mouse.
If it does not respond:
- Try another USB port and avoid using a USB hub.
- Unplug the receiver, wait about 10 seconds, and reconnect it.
- If the mouse or receiver has a Reset or Connect button, press it to restore the wireless connection. ^1^
Bluetooth mouse
- Turn on the mouse.
- Put it into pairing mode. Usually, this means holding the button on its underside until a light starts blinking; consult the mouse instructions if necessary.
- On Windows 11, open Start → Settings → Bluetooth & devices.
- Turn Bluetooth on.
- Select Add device → Bluetooth.
- Select the mouse and then Done.
- On Windows 10, open Start → Settings → Devices → Bluetooth & other devices.
- Turn Bluetooth on.
- Select Add Bluetooth or other device → Bluetooth.
- Select the mouse and then Done. ^2^
Once paired, the mouse should reconnect automatically whenever Bluetooth is on and the mouse is within range.
If the Bluetooth mouse is not listed
- Check that its pairing light is blinking.
- Replace or recharge its batteries.
- Switch the mouse off and back on, then place it into pairing mode again.
- If the computer has no Bluetooth option, it may require a USB Bluetooth adapter. ^2^
- Test the mouse on another computer. If it also fails there, the mouse may need replacement. ^1^
References