What To Do When a Gaming Keyboard Is Not Working 


Imagine after testing the components of your gaming setup, you realize the problem is with your gaming keyboard, which is not working. As frustrating as this might seem, it’s not uncommon, and we have various ways to solve this problem. This article explains exactly what you can do when your gaming keyboard is not working. 

A gaming keyboard may not be working due to power issues, connection problems, issues with the computer or keyboard settings, software problems, or dust and debris. When a gaming keyboard is not working, start by cleaning the keyboard and restarting the computer. If the issue persists, update the driver, uninstall software that may be conflicting with the keyboard, and run the computer’s troubleshooter. 

Why Is My Gaming Keyboard Not Working?

If your gaming keyboard is not working, the first step in addressing your gaming keyboard problem is understanding what is causing it in the first place. From damaged parts to incompatible software, there are several possible reasons why your gaming keyboard is unresponsive.

A gaming keyboard may not be working due to a dead battery or because it isn’t correctly connected to the computer. Dust or debris could be preventing the keyboard from recognizing the keystrokes, number lock or different language settings could hinder the keys from registering the correct character, computer software and outdated drivers may be preventing the keyboard from running correctly.  

The best way to diagnose the problem is by a process of elimination. Test your keyboard for the above-stated likely issues until you identify the specific problem. 

Summary of Gaming Keyboard Problems & Tools Needed To Fix Them 

Possible Reasons Why Your Gaming Keyboard Isn’t Working How To Fix the Problem Tools or Products You May Need
The keyboard is not turned on or connected to power Make sure your keyboard is on and properly connected to a stable power source GunMjo Pro Custom Coiled USB C Cable
The computer’s USB port is faulty  Repair or replace a damaged USB port with an option that’s compatible with the keyboard Partstock 10pcs USB replacement
Debris affecting keystroke recognition Clean the keyboard keys to remove dirt   191Pcs Keyboard Cleaning KitFalcon Dust-Off Air Spray
Unrecognized language setup Ensure your computer language settings are recognized by the keyboard Language Packs for Windows
Incompatible or outdated drivers Make sure all device drivers on your computer are up to date and compatible with the keyboard DriverEasy Driver Update Tool

Be sure also to take a look at these gaming keyboard testers and how to use a tester properly. Similarly, there are several benefits to gaming with a keyboard in your lap. If you're interested, be sure to read our related article to find out more information.

Your keyboard may not be working for the following reasons:

Reason 1. The Keyboard Is Not Turned On or Connected to the Computer or Has No Power

If your keyboard is wireless or runs on batteries, it is important to ensure that it is fully charged before setting it up. For a step-by-step guide, check out our article on how to charge Bluetooth & wireless keyboards

Once you rectify the power issue, you want to ensure your keyboard is properly connected to your laptop/computer. First, start up your gaming laptop and register the connection with the computer. Using a wireless keyboard, you may connect it to the computer through Bluetooth or any other available option. Conversely, ensure the wire is correctly fitted into the appropriate USB port on your computer for corded keyboards.

When your gaming keyboard is not working first check that the connection is okay and that the battery is charged.
Your gaming keyboard probably isn’t working because of an uncharged battery or a connection issue. Source: JayceOoi.com.

Reason 2. The Computer’s USB Port Is Faulty

Start by cleaning out the port. Since USB ports are left wide open, it’s likely for dirt to get caught in them. First, shut down your computer to clean your USB port and gently clean out accumulated debris with a thin plastic toothpick or a USB port brush like this.

Next, inspect the port for damage. You may do this by plugging the cord into the USB port and gently wiggling it in after it’s been fitted. If you notice the USB connector is bent or broken out of the board. It is advisable to take such an issue to a keyboard professional to fix. 

Finally, if you notice damage to any of your USB ports, try another port. Most computers have at least three ports. You’re likely to find one works for your cord.

The USB port could be damaged and be the cause of your gaming keyboard not working.
Before connecting your corded gaming keyboard to your computer, ensure the USB port is functional by completing a thorough maintenance check. Source: 1.bp.blogspot.com.

Reason 3. Dust Or Debris In the Keyboard Is Creating Issues

Use a small brush or blower to clean the keyboard surface and crevices. For a deeper clean, use a key puller tool to take out the keyboard keys and clean the internal components with any of the previously mentioned instruments or a cleaning gel. A keyboard cleaning kit like this contains all the necessary materials, making the cleaning process seamless and simple. 

Our article will prove useful if you have gotten more fluid-based substances like water or tea on your keyboard and you’re wondering how to clean your laptop keyboard after a spill.

A gaming keyboard that is not working may simply need a very good clean.
Accumulated dust or debris increases friction within internal components, affecting connection and performance. Source: Flickr.

Reason 4. Number Lock or Different Language Settings are Causing Your Keys to Register the Wrong Characters

If you ordered your gaming keyboard from a foreign country, the settings could be causing the problem. Differences in language and computer settings could be causing an error and affecting your keyboard’s performance.

There’s usually an easy fix if your laptop is typing the wrong characters. First, ensure your NumLock key is turned off, which sets the keyboard characters into numbers. To disable the feature, press the “NumLock” key or the “FN” + “NumLock.” Our article is a useful step-by-step guide if you find your keyboard is typing numbers instead of letters.

If your keyboard still isn’t working, it is likely to have a language input problem. After connecting your gaming keyboard to your computer, adjust the language settings by accessing the “Settings” tab on your computer. Scroll down until you see an appropriate option and select the preferred language to effect the changes.

If your “NumLock” key is activated it will cause your keyboard to register the wrong characters.
Ensure your “NumLock” key is disabled to avoid unwanted issues. Source: Tech Walla.

Reason 5. Computer Settings Like “Toggle Keys”, “Sticky Keys”, and “Filter Keys”, Are Causing a Problem

Toggle keys are designed for people with cognitive disabilities and visual impairments. The feature is enabled when your computer emits a sound when you press the “CAPS”, “NUMLk”, or “SCROLL Lock” keys.

“Sticky Keys” help those who have issues pressing multiple keys simultaneously. For instance, if you have problems using keyboard shortcuts or you’re playing a game that requires you to hold multiple keys, this feature helps you press the keys at the same time.

Finally, “Filter Keys” are an accessibility option to control the keyboard repeat rate. This feature adjusts the keyboard response rate and ignores repeated words produced by slow or inaccurate finger movements. 

To turn off any of the features mentioned above, head to the “Settings” tab on your computer. Different software requires different methods of turning off the features. It’s advisable to look up the one that best suits your current computer.

Computer settings and special key functions could be affecting whether your gaming keyboard is working properly.
Computer settings are another reason why your laptop might not be working. While Toggle, Sticky, and Filter keys are designed to make your computer control easier, they could hamper the keyboard function if not properly set. Source: i1.wp.com

Reason 6. The Software and Drivers for the Keyboard Are Not Up to Date

To update your keyboard software, visit the support page of your gaming keyboard brand. Next, click the category your keyboard belongs to and follow the necessary prompts till you get to an “Updates” tab. Finally, follow the required instructions to install the critical updates.

Make sure that your drivers are up to date so that your gaming keyboard and software remain compatible.
Update your drivers to avoid compatibility issues between your keyboard and software. Source: Easy PC Mod.

This particular issue may be solved by using a specific gaming keyboard. Take a look at our related article explaining the differences between a gaming vs. a regular keyboard for more detailed information.

Reason 7. Newly Downloaded Software Is Conflicting With the Keyboard

Following up on the point above, before installing new software, ensure the program is compatible with your computer’s gaming setup and vice versa. 

You may want to check out our article on how to reset your keyboard for quick Windows and Mac methods.

For your gaming keyboard to be working properly newly downloaded software needs to be compatible with it.
If you find your keyboard software is not well-matched with your computer, it is advisable to reset it to software that does. Source: media.s-bol.com.

You might also be interested to know what our gaming keyboard recommendations are. If so, be sure to check out our related article for more information.

Reset the Computer, Turn the Keyboard Off & Back On, and Connect It to the Computer To Solve a Simple Connection Problem

An incompatibility issue is one of the common reasons why your keyboard isn’t working. Luckily, this issue is pretty easy to fix on your own. 

Reset the computer by disconnecting and turning off the keyboard, and updating the device on the “Settings” tab of your computer. Restart the keyboard, then try reconnecting it to the computer. This simple reset may solve the problem if the keyboard has frozen and become unresponsive. 

These simple steps should fix a keyboard that has frozen and is unresponsive:

Step 1. Turn Off Your Keyboard

You could address your keyboard connection issue by simply restarting your computer. In the same vein, if your wireless keyboard is having problems connecting to your computer, most times, simply switching it off and back on could be enough to solve the problem. The button’s location varies with different models, but it’s usually located on the bottom or side of the keyboard. 

According to this article by Corsair, resetting your keyboard can help to fix some keyboard issues. 

Locate the power button of your gaming keyboard that isn’t working properly and turn it off.
Press and hold the power button on the device to power it off. Source: Walls Desk.

Step 2. Open the Settings Tab

After restarting your keyboard, reconnect it to your computer and open the “Settings” tab on your monitor. Depending on your computer, you may access the keyboard through the “Windows Tab” or “Apple Menu.”

Navigate to your computer’s settings by pressing the Windows key on the keyboard.
Alternatively, you could tap on the Windows icon on the keyboard to get to the settings tab. Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com.

Step 3. Make the Necessary Adjustments

Most computers offer customizing options. Simply selecting the right settings could address your keyboard problem. You may effect the changes by accessing the keyboard over on the settings tab of your computer and applying the necessary changes. 

As mentioned earlier, different keyboard models have specific system reset methods. We explain how to reset a Corsair Keyboard and how to reset a Logitech keyboard so that you can go ahead and reset your device.

Customize the settings of your computer and gaming keyboard to keep everything working optimally.
Make adjustments to your keyboard settings and features. Source: Life Wire.

Connect the Keyboard to a Different USB Port, or Different Computer, To Determine If There Is a USB Port or Bluetooth Issue

If you are experiencing problems with the functionality of your keyboard then you need to check if there is a problem with the connection with the computer. 

To diagnose an issue with the USB port or Bluetooth connection, connect the keyboard to a different port or a different computer.

The gaming keyboard may not be working properly because of a faulty connection.
A problematic USB port could hamper your keyboard and computer connection. Source: Pinterest.

Follow these simple steps to see whether your keyboard is not working due to a connectivity issue:

Step 1. Restart the Computer

Switch off your computer and keyboard and turn them back on. If the connection problem persists, you’ll want to try out more complicated fixes.

Restart your computer to see whether that will fix your keyboard that isn’t working.
An easy solution to fix a keyboard connection problem is restarting the associated devices. Source: Guru Gamer.

Step 2. Clean Out the Port

A buildup of dirt in the USB port could create resistance, which could invariably lead to connection problems so you will have to clean out the USB port with a kit like this if dirt is causing the problem.

To ensure that your gaming keyboard connects and starts working properly clean the USB port thoroughly.
To rule out this possibility, use a small brush or toothpick to remove unwanted particles from the port carefully. Source: PC Mag.

Step 3. Check for Damage

If you notice the USB port compartment is unstable and moves when cords are connected, it is likely detached from the board. This will cause connectivity problems and should be repaired professionally.

Have damaged USB ports repaired professionally.
Take a damaged USB port issue to professional repairers. Source: City Laptop Repair.

Step 4. Try a Different USB Port

If one of the USB ports isn’t working, simply plug your keyboard into another port until you find one that’s responsive.

Step 5. Swap the Cable

To rule out whether the cable is faulty, consider swapping the cord with one you’re sure is functioning properly.

Try swapping the USB cable with another one to check whether that has caused your gaming keyboard to stop working properly.
USB ports aside, you could try swapping the cables to fix the connection problem. Source: Kickstarter.

Step 6. Test With Another Computer

Since the gaming setup involves multiple components, it is advisable to rule out the malfunctioning of each of them. Aside from the USB port and cable, the computer is another component to test. It might just not be compatible with your keyboard. 

Check your gaming keyboard’s compatibility with the rest of your gaming setup to try to get it working properly again.
If you have access to another computer, try the keyboard on that device to test its functionality. Source: Flickr.

Step 7. Check the Wireless Connection

If that doesn’t work, ensure the wireless settings on your computer are adjusted to better options before reestablishing a connection.

Clean the Keyboard To Fix Unresponsive Keyboard Keys

The importance of cleaning out grime buildup within your keyboard cannot be overemphasized. These particles not only affect the responsiveness of your device but if left uncleaned for an extended period, could potentially damage your keyboard’s hardware. 

Clean the keyboard to remove dust and debris that may be causing unresponsive keyboard keys by turning it off and wiping the surface. Lift the keycaps off and clean the internal components for deeper cleaning. 

According to this article by Intel, you should clean your keyboard at least once in 3 months. Remember to wipe all of your keyboards if you use more than one.

Follow these steps to clean your keyboard thoroughly:

Step 1. Turn Off the Keyboard

Start by turning your keyboard off and disconnecting the power source.

The first thing to do when cleaning your keyboard is to turn it off.
Before cleaning your keyboard, make sure it’s switched off and disconnected from any external power source. Source: Flickr.

Step 2. Wipe the Surface Clean

Additionally, you could use cleaning substances to make the process easier. Cleaning gels like this help remove light particles and make the process of cleaning simpler.

Clean all the dirt particles from the surface of your keyboard to see if this will help to get it working optimally again.
Start by doing a light cleaning of the keyboard surface. You may do this by using a small brush or cloth to wipe between the cracks and crevices of the keyboard keys. Source: xda-developers.com.

Step 3. Remove the Keys

Use a keycap puller like this to gently pull the keys off. Make sure you keep the detached keys organized, so it’s easier to reassemble.

To give your keyboard a deep clean remove all the keycaps.
You have to remove the keyboard keycaps to access the internal chambers for deeper cleaning. Source: Life Wire.

Step 4. Clean the Internal Components

Once you have access to the internal compartments of the keyboard, clean out the grime. Start by using an aerosol spray like this to blow off lighter particles. Afterward, you may use an appropriately-sized brush like this to clean the compartments before wiping down the surface with cleaning fluid.

Once your keyboard has been cleaned thoroughly, return all the keycaps and test to see whether it is working properly.
Once you have cleaned the keyboard, ensure all the components are properly dried before reinserting the keys and testing out your keyboard. Source: All Gamers.  

Make Sure “NumLk” Is Disabled and the Computer Language Is Set Correctly To Fix Keyboard Keys Typing Incorrect Characters 

If you think your gaming keyboard is not working, it might be because shortcuts are being activated inappropriately.

To fix keyboard keys typing wrong characters, press the NumLock key. Also, ensure the language is set correctly by applying the appropriate language in the “Settings” tab.

If you find that your keyboard is stuck in shortcut mode, check out our guide for a step-by-step solution on how to rectify the problem.

Follow these steps to fix the settings of your gaming keyboard:

Step 1. Disable the “NumLk” Feature

The NumLock key is located in the top right area of most keyboards. This feature can affect your keyboard performance as the device would be registering the wrong commands.

Most keyboards come with “Fn” keys that you press in conjunction with other keys to enable the feature. The “NumLk” indicator will light up when enabled and dim down when disabled. A shortcut to activate this feature is pressing the “Fn + SHIFT + NumLk” or “SHIFT + NumLk” and pressing the stated keys a second time to deactivate it.

Enabling certain functions on your keyboard could change the characters that pressing certain keys will produce.
The “NumLk” or “ScrollLock” feature helps you use the numeric keypad on your keyboard and converts letters into numbers. Source: i.stack.imgur.com.

Step 2. Adjust the Language Settings

If your keyboard is set to a language you’re unfamiliar with, navigating through the device might prove tedious. Depending on your computer, there are several methods you can use to set your keyboard to your preferred language.

For a Windows 11 computer:

  1. Click the “Start” menu icon and the “Settings” tab
  2. Click “Time and Language” and “Language & Region”
  3. Finally, select the “Add Language” tab and set your keyboard to your preferred language

For a MacBook

  1. Tap on the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
  2. Click on the “Language & Region.”
  3. Tap the “+” button at the bottom left of the dialog box for the list of languages.
  4. Select your preferred language. 
  5. The macOS will ask if you would like to set it as your primary language. Follow the prompts to select your preferred option. 

Ensure “Toggle Keys”, “Filter Keys”, and “Sticky Keys” Are Turned Off and Not Interfering With the Keystrokes

The Toggle, Filter, and Sticky keys are accessibility features offered in Windows systems. These keys can trigger unwanted beep sounds when certain keys are pressed. Also, enabling any of the keys could change the keyboard instructions.  

To make sure key settings are not causing a problem, go to the computer settings and ensure the keys are set to the preferred option.

Different Windows solutions use different respective methods of disabling the accessibility features. It's best to look up a tutorial for changing settings suited to your computer as this video tutorial by TechGumbo does. However, the below-listed steps are appropriate if you use Windows 10.

Step 1. Go To Computer Settings

Click on your taskbar's "Windows" icon and head to the "Settings" tab. Click on the "Ease of Access" option in the tab and scroll down the "Interaction" area to select the "Keyboard" device. 

Navigate from the Windows key through to your “Keyboard” device.
This bar would list the various accessibility features, their respective shortcuts, and a toggle bar to turn them on/off. Source: Life Wire.

Step 2. Turn Off “Toggle Keys”

This feature plays a beep sound whenever you press the Caps Lock, NumLock, or ScrollLock keys. You can toggle the button on/off to control the feature.

Turn off the “Toggle Keys” function for your gaming keyboard to start working normally.
Press and hold the NumLock key for five seconds for a shortcut. Source: encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com.

Step 3. Disable “Filter Keys”

Filter keys ignore repeated keystrokes and are useful in changing the keyboard repeat rate. To enable or disable this feature, press and hold the SHIFT key for eight seconds or toggle the feature on/off in the Keyboard settings.

Turn off the “Filter Keys” function if it is not needed.
You will get a prompt to turn filter keys on or off, simply click on “No”. Source: Appligent.

Step 4. Turn Off “Sticky Keys”

Sticky keys are useful for persons who'd prefer to tap on keys in succession rather than simultaneously. A particularly useful feature for those who struggle to press shortcut buttons. To adjust this feature, you can toggle on and off to enable or disable Sticky keys in the settings. Tap the toggle button until it indicates "Off" to disable the feature.

Disable the “Sticky Keys” function if it is not needed.
You will get a prompt to turn sticky keys on or off, simply click on “No”. Source: Appligent.

Update Software and Drivers for the Keyboard So They Run Smoothly

Outdated keyboard software or drivers would affect your computer’s performance. Which can be pretty frustrating when engaging in a resolution-heavy task like gaming. 

From time to time, software and drivers may need to be updated to keep the keyboard operating correctly. To update the keyboard driver, open your device manager, access the keyboard, and follow the prompts to update the drivers.

As this article from the University of Maryland states, it is important to perform software updates to get optimum performance from your computer and its components like the keyboard.

This is how you update software and drivers for your keyboard so that they can run smoothly:

Step 1. Open the Device Manager

Access your settings and navigate to the “Device Manager”.

Navigate to the “Device Manager” in your settings.
Head to the "Windows" icon and search for the "Device Manager" to open this tab. Source: EasyPCMod.

Step 2. Access The Keyboard Option

Ensure your keyboard is properly connected, as this would determine whether or not it pops up.

From selecting “Device Manager” scroll down to “Keyboards”.
After opening the Device Manager, scroll down to the "Keyboards" to access your device. Source: EasyPCMod.

Step 3. Select the Keyboard and Then “Update Driver”

Next, select the "Update driver" tab.

Navigate to the “Update driver” tab.
After selecting the "Keyboards" option, select your preferred keyboard device to open up the properties. Source: EasyPCMod.

Step 4. Update the Driver

After pressing the driver tab, find where it says "Update Driver" and click on that option. The “Search automatically” option is advisable as it removes the stress of doing the process manually.

Select the method that you would like to use to update your driver software.
The tab would direct you to update your drivers automatically or browse your computer to update manually. Source: EasyPCMod.

Step 5. Restart the Computer

Once your driver update has been set, restart the computer and keyboard to effect the changes. 

To make sure that your changes are set, restart your computer.
Restart your computer to allow the changes made by the update to take effect. Source: FPS Gadgets.

Uninstall Recently Downloaded Software That May Be Interfering With the Keyboard Software

If you notice a software-compatibility issue between the device and your computer after the update, it might be best to uninstall the software.

If there is a problem soon after the new software is installed, try uninstalling it to determine if it is interfering with the keyboard software.

You may carry out this change with the following steps:

Step 1. Access the Keyboard

Once again, open the "Device Manager" and scroll down to the "Keyboards" to access your device.

Once again navigate from your settings through to your keyboard device.
Click on the little arrow next to “keyboard” to show the keyboards connected to your computer. Source: FPS Gadgets.

Step 2. Uninstall the Driver

After locating your keyboard, right-click on the device and click on the option "Uninstall Driver." This would rid your keyboard of any recent updates causing the problem.

Once you have selected your keyboard device, right-click on it and select “Uninstall Device”.
Click on “Uninstall Device” then click on “Uninstall”. Source FPS Gadgets.

Step 3. Restart the System

Restart your computer to confirm the changes and then test the keyboard to check if the software update was the problem. Try installing other updates until you get an option compatible with your gaming setup.

To confirm the changes restart your computer.
After uninstalling the driver, restart your computer to effect the changes. Source: Quora.

Can a Mechanical Keyboard Be Repaired?

The ergonomic design gives mechanical keyboards a greater functional advantage than their membrane counterparts. 

Yes, a mechanical keyboard can be repaired. Problems with individual keys can be addressed by cleaning or replacing the switches.

If you're considering switching to a mechanical model, our article highlights the best wireless mechanical keyboards you should consider. You could also check out our 10 best gaming keyboard options for budget-friendly corded options. You can address most issues with mechanical keyboards with a simple fix as they are usually minor hardware issues, so if you're having problems with your device and are wondering whether you can repair your mechanical keyboard, we have some great advice. 

Mechanical keyboards are designed to last longer, and most problems are relatively easy to fix. As mentioned in this YouTube video tutorial, anyone can easily disassemble a mechanical keyboard. A dysfunctional key or switch is the most common issue with a mechanical keyboard. With the right tools and techniques, you can fix the problem yourself. However, if you are a bit unsure of how a keyboard works you should have it done professionally.

Mechanical keyboards can be used for gaming and are more durable and easy to repair if they stop working.
Mechanical keyboards are easy to use and are a way to showcase unique aesthetics. Source: i.pinimg.com.

How To Clean or Replace a Switch on a Mechanical Keyboard

A dirty or defective switch may be the reason your gaming keyboard is not working. To better diagnose the issue, carry out a thorough inspection of your keyboard components. Click individual keys and note for resistance when pushing down the switches or unresponsive keys. If you experience any of the stated issues, chances are your keyboard switches are due for maintenance.

To clean or replace a switch, first, get the necessary maintenance tools, remove the mechanical keycaps and carefully clean the buttons underneath before putting the caps back on the board. 

Step 1. Prepare Your Tools

Before you start the maintenance procedure, ensure the necessary tools are within reach. You'll need a keycap-switch puller, switch removers, compressed air, a cleaning solution, and a clean cloth. A cleaning tool kit like this contains the necessary removal and cleaning instruments. 

Additionally, if you intend to replace your keycaps or switches with newer alternatives, make sure that you check what is available. Universal mechanical key caps like these and switches like these will serve as worthy upgrades. You could also check out our article on how to replace keyboard switches for a DIY guide on swapping out old keyboard switches.

If your keyboard needs caps and switches replaced, it would be best to use the appropriate tools that will make the task much easier.
Equipping yourself with the right tools makes the keyboard maintenance process easier. Source: Shopify.

Step 2. Remove the Keycaps

Once your tools are ready, you can get to work. Use the keycap-switch puller to carefully remove the caps from the board. Be sure to take a picture of your keyboard before removal or organize the removed caps chronologically to ensure you don't mess up the arrangement when putting the caps back on.

Once you have the correct tools use the keycap puller to remove the keycaps to get to the switches.
Remove the keycaps to get to the keyboard’s internal components. Source: external-preview.redd.it.

Step 3. Clean the Switches

Use compressed air like this to blow off light debris from your switches. Spray the air through the cracks and crevices of the switchboard. You could try angling the nozzle in different positions to ensure you reach every area of the board. However, be careful not to place the nozzle too close to the switches as the air pressure could dislodge or damage the components.

Use a compressed gas duster to clean the keyboard’s switches properly.
A dusting spray is a seamless way to clean keyboard switches. Source: lh5.googleusercontent.com.

Step 4. Remove the Debris

Once you've blown off the lighter particles with the air duster, it’s time to clean out the heavier particles. Use a nylon brush to remove tougher stains and grime from the switchboard. It might take a while to remove dirt within the switches. However, it is critical to apply moderate pressure to avoid damaging the components.

Mix two parts of alcohol like this with one part of water to create the solution or get a ready-made cleaning fluid. Soak a clean cloth, preferably made with microfiber fabric like this, in the solution and wipe the damp cloth on the switchboard. 

A cleaning wipe may be better for removing fine dust and other debris.
If the nylon brush isn't doing a great job at cleaning dust and debris, use a cleaning wipe to complete the process. Source: Candid Technology.

Step 5. Clean the Switch Stabilizers

A dirt buildup within or around the switch stabilizers could create friction and make the switches less responsive. You may use a cleaning brush or spray compressed air to dust off the stabilizers.

Make sure that the switch stabilizers are also cleaned so that the switches and keys of the keyboard work properly.
The stabilizers are responsible for holding the switches and keycaps in place and should also be cleaned. Source: switchandclick.com.

Step 6. Allow the Components To Dry

Once all the parts have been cleaned, leave them to dry for about an hour. It is critical to make sure the components are completely dry before reinstalling, as damp/wet parts could create more problems in the long run. Apart from air drying, you could additionally use a dry, clean cloth to wipe off the keyboard components.

Make sure that your keyboard is thoroughly dry to avoid other problems from developing in the long run.
Apart from air drying, use a dry and clean cloth to wipe off the keyboard components. Source: LifeWire.

Step 7. Reinstall the Caps

Gently push each cap onto its respective switch. If you can't recall the previous arrangement, refer to the keyboard picture you took before as a blueprint. It is advisable to work from left to right.

Gently push each cap onto its respective switch.
Now that all the parts of the keyboard are cleaned, they can be put back where they belong. Source: d1fs8ljxwyzba6.cloudfront.net.  

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