How to Fix laptop scrolling on its own

Updated on January 4, 2024
laptop scrolling on its own

What is one of the worst things that could happen to a planned productive day? Well, let’s see how about your laptop developing a technical fault e.g. scrolling by itself.

Why Is My Laptop Scrolling On Its Own?

When you troubleshoot, you will find that a laptop scrolling by itself occurs as a result of either of the following: weak batteries in an external mouse, malfunctioning USB of an external mouse, defective touchpad.

Below, we take a look at how to troubleshoot both an external mouse and touchpad to fix the issue of scrolling.

How to Fix Mouse Scrolling Problems on My Laptop

External Mouse

Option 1 – Batteries Switch

Step 1: Check the Batteries

When the batteries are weak, the wireless mouse stops proper function. It might stop working altogether or malfunction by randomly scrolling on its own.

Step 2: Change the Batteries

If you notice that the batteries are bloated or have a green/black liquid seeping out, it is time for a change. Once the batteries are changed, try using it to see if it has regained normal function.

Option 2 – Receiver Light Synchronization

Step 1: Check the red light

The red light represents the receiver. So, check if it is blinking or erratic in its function.

Step 2: Resynchronize

Press the button on the mouse’s receiver station to resynchronize it. Doing this resets the mouse to factory settings. However, if there is no button on the mouse, read the manual to find out what to do for resynchronization.

Option 3 – Check for other wireless devices

Signals from other wireless devices might affect the functionality of the mouse. Therefore, check if there is any on and put them off or take them elsewhere. These wireless devices could be your phone, home thermostat, etc.

Option 4 – Change the Connection Port

The USB port might be the reason why your laptop scrolls on its own.

Step 1: Remove the connection

The wireless should have a small connection to be inserted into a port, therefore, remove it from the laptop

Step 2: Change the port

Your laptop should have more than one USB port so try inserting the connection into it. If it does not work, try testing it on another system. If it works, then your laptop’s USB port needs a change.

Option 5 – Uninstall New Updates and Drivers

If you noticed that your laptop started scrolling by itself after installing a new update or driver, then try uninstalling.

Step 1: Go to “Start on Windows”

FSOption5.1

Step 2: Go to “Control Panel”

FSOption5.2

Step 3: Click the “Programs and Features” menu

FSOption5.3

Step 4: Right click the feature you updated

FSOption5.4

Step 5: Click “Uninstall”

Step 6: Restart your system

FSOption5.6

Option 6 – Reinstall /Update Drivers

You may have installed a corrupt file or failed to update an old driver. Update your mouse software by paying a visit to the manufacturer’s website.

Step 1: Go to the manufacturer’s website

Step 2: Search for your “mouse number”

Step 3: Click the “Download” link

Step 4: “Save” the file

Step 5: “Run” then “Install”

Option 7 – Turn Off Firewall

The setting on your firewall may have been activated so check it.

Step 1: Click the “Start” Menu 

FSOption7.1

Step 2: Go to “Control Panel”

FSOption7.2-

Step 3: Click the “Firewall” settings.

FSOption7.3

Step 4: Check for any odd changes

FSOption7.4

Option 8 – Check Antivirus

Another possible cause of a laptop scrolling on its own is a virus. Therefore, “run” the antivirus software or download Kaspersky, Symantec, Eset, or Webroot if you do not have one.

Option 9 – Purchase a New Mouse

If you confirm that the laptop scrolling problem is caused by the mouse, try all the enlisted troubleshooting tips above. If they do not work, then it is time to purchase a new mouse.

Touchpad

Option 10 – Change Mouse Properties

Step 1: Go to “Start on Windows”

FSOption10.2

Step 2: Go to “Control Panel”

FSOption10.1

Step 3: Type “Mouse”into the search field

FSOption10.3

Step 4: Go to  “change mouse settings”

FSOption10.4

Step 5: Click “Pointer Options”

FSOption10.5

Step 6: Pick “Scroll Selected Item” 

FSOption10.6

Step 7: Adjust “Motion”

Step 8: Perform a Drag action by moving the slider from left to right to decrease or increase scroll speed

FSOption10.8

Step 9: Select “Apply” and then “Ok”

Option 11 – Check Antivirus

If you only make use of a touchpad for input into your laptop, a virus might be the cause of the malfunction.

Step 1: Click the “Start” Menu 

FSOption11.1-1

Step 2: Search for the name of your antivirus 

FSOption11.2

Step 3: Click the “Antivirus” name

FSOption11.3

Step 4: “Scan” for virus

Option 12 – Install /Update Drivers

You may have installed a corrupt file or failed to update an old driver. Update your mouse software by going to the support section.

Step 1: Use the “Search” option to find “HP Support Assistant”

FSOption12.1

Step 2: Click “My Computer”

FSOption12.2

Step 3: Click the “Updates” tab

FSOption12.3

Step 4: Select“Check for updates” 

FSOption12.4

Step 5: “Install” updates

Step 6: “Restart” the system

Option 13 – Uninstall New Updates and Drivers

If you noticed that your laptop started scrolling by itself after installing a new update or driver, then try uninstalling.

Step 1: Go to “Start on Windows”

Step 2: Go to “Control Panel”

Step 3: Double click the “Programs” menu

Step 4: Select the feature you updated

Step 5: Click “Uninstall”

Step 6: Restart your system

Option 14 – Connect an external mouse

If all the above do not work, your touchpad might have a fault. To test this, try connecting an external mouse. 

Step 1: Go to “Start on Windows”

FSOption14.1

Step 2: Go to “Control Panel”

FSOption14.2

Step 3: Type “Mouse”into the search field

FSOption14.3

Step 4: Go to  “Device settings”

FSOption14.4

Step 5: Under Devices, look out for the menu “disable internal pointing device when external USB pointing device is attached ”

FSOption14.5

Step 6: Tick the box 

Step 7: Select “Apply”

Step 8: Connect “External Mouse” and start scrolling

For those who prefer the touchpad, send your laptop to a repair shop.

However, did you know that apart from a mouse and touchpad, there are other ways you can scroll on your laptop?

Can I Use Another Means to Scroll On My Laptop?

Well, the answer is yes, a laptop has various means by which you can input instructions. Mouse and laptop touchpads happen to be the most popular but other methods include:

  • Keyboard: if you take a look at the keys on the board, you will see various captions. You can make use of the four arrow keys or the Page Up, and Page Dn keys to scroll.
  • Touchscreen: all laptops with touch function allow you to scroll on the screen using the pad of your thumb.
  • Pen: if your laptop has a pen, this is another way to scroll.

If any of the above develop a fault the effects can be your laptop scrolling by itself.

laptop scrolling on its own [Fixed]

Resolving the issue of a laptop scrolling by itself is quite easy. Using any of the troubleshooting tips above should resolve the problem in under 5 minutes.

But, it is important that you do not change the settings of your laptop to the point that other configurations are affected.

Anh Kenny Trinh

Kenny Trinh is a seasoned expert in the field of laptops and technology, boasting an extensive background enriched by years of hands-on experience and in-depth research. With a keen eye for innovation and a passion for staying ahead of the technological curve, Kenny has established himself as a trusted voice in the tech community. Holding a prestigious degree in Computer Science, he combines his academic insights with practical expertise to deliver valuable insights and recommendations to his readers and followers. Through his work, Kenny aims to demystify complex tech concepts, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and optimize their digital experiences.

Article by:
Kenny Trinh
Kenny Trinh is a seasoned expert in the field of laptops and technology, boasting an extensive background enriched by years of hands-on experience and in-depth research. With a keen eye for innovation and a passion for staying ahead of the technological curve, Kenny has established himself as a trusted voice in the tech community. Holding a prestigious degree in Computer Science, he combines his academic insights with practical expertise to deliver valuable insights and recommendations to his readers and followers. Through his work, Kenny aims to demystify complex tech concepts, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and optimize their digital experiences.

Leave a Comment