After a forced Windows update, two USB ports on my desktop stopped recognizing devices even though they still supplied power. My phone charges when connected, but a mouse or keyboard isn't detected. I tried reinstalling the USB drivers and restarting several times without success. I then reset the BIOS to its defaults after reading that it might help, which triggered BitLocker recovery. The computer later shut down completely, though it eventually started again and now remains at the BitLocker recovery screen. Unfortunately, none of the USB ports recognize a keyboard, so I can't enter the recovery key or access the BIOS. I have a temporary laptop available to create bootable media if necessary, but I'm trying to avoid an expensive repair shop visit. Is there a safe way to determine whether this is a hardware problem and regain keyboard input?
3 Answers
Be careful with BitLocker recovery. Resetting BIOS settings can cause BitLocker to request the recovery key because the system’s security measurements changed; it does not necessarily mean the drive is damaged. The key may be saved to the Microsoft account associated with the computer, printed, or stored by whoever configured it. Don’t erase or reinstall Windows until the recovery key has been located, since that could make the existing data inaccessible.
Uninstalling the USB host controllers in Device Manager and restarting is normally a reasonable Windows-side fix, since Windows should reinstall them automatically. However, because the keyboard is not detected even during startup, that test no longer rules out a hardware or firmware problem. A PS/2 keyboard, if the motherboard has a round PS/2 port, could provide input without relying on USB. Otherwise, try clearing the CMOS using the motherboard’s documented procedure, then test with a known-good wired keyboard and the rear USB ports.
I had already removed the USB drivers and restarted several times before changing the BIOS settings, but it didn’t help. I’ll check whether the motherboard has a PS/2 port and try another keyboard if I can.
The first useful test is to connect the keyboard before powering on and try entering the BIOS. Test every USB port, including the rear motherboard ports rather than only the case’s front ports. If the keyboard works in BIOS, the hardware is probably fine and the problem is likely Windows, its recovery environment, or a driver/update. If the BIOS also reports that no keyboard is detected, that points more toward a USB controller, motherboard, BIOS configuration, or keyboard issue. Try a different basic wired keyboard as well.
I tried starting with the keyboard connected, but the startup screen still says “No keyboard detected,” so I can’t get into the BIOS.
If none of the USB ports work before Windows loads, bootable media probably won’t solve the immediate input problem. Focus first on a different wired keyboard, a PS/2 connection, or restoring the motherboard’s firmware settings using its manual.