Wireless keyboards make life so much easier—no messy cables to deal with, and you can type comfortably from almost anywhere.
But what happens if your wireless keyboard’s dongle (the little USB receiver that connects the keyboard to your computer) gets lost or stops working?
Don’t worry—it’s not the end of your keyboard’s life! With a few simple steps, you can replace the dongle and get your wireless keyboard back in action. Let’s dive into how you can do this.
What Is a Wireless Keyboard Dongle?
A dongle is the USB receiver that connects your wireless keyboard to your computer. It acts as a bridge between the two, transmitting signals from your keyboard to your computer wirelessly. Without the dongle, your keyboard won’t work unless it supports Bluetooth. So, if your dongle is missing or damaged, you’ll need a replacement.
⚙️ How does a Logitech Unifying Receiver Work?
💡 What do do if your receiver is not working
Can You Replace a Wireless Keyboard Dongle?
Yes, but it depends on the brand and model of your keyboard. Many wireless keyboards come with dongles that are “pre-paired” to the keyboard at the factory.
Examples are the Amazon Basics Wireless Keyboard
Replacing such dongles can be tricky. However, some brands, like Logitech and Microsoft, offer options to re-pair your keyboard to a new dongle.
Logitech Unifying Receiver can be easily replaced
Steps to Replace Your Wireless Keyboard Dongle
1. Check Your Keyboard’s Brand and Model
Look at the back of your keyboard or the original packaging to find the model number. This information is important for finding a compatible replacement dongle. If you don’t have the packaging, the brand and model are often printed near the battery compartment or on the bottom of the keyboard.
2. Contact the Manufacturer
Some manufacturers, like Logitech, sell replacement dongles. For example, Logitech offers the Unifying Receiver, which works with many of their devices.
👉 Read about Logitech Receivers
Microsoft and Dell also provide replacement dongles for select models. Visit the manufacturer’s website or contact their customer support to confirm compatibility with your keyboard.
3. Buy a Replacement Dongle
If your keyboard supports it, purchase a replacement dongle from the manufacturer’s website or a trusted retailer. If you’re unsure about compatibility, consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer to avoid buying the wrong dongle.
4. Re-Pair Your Keyboard with the New Dongle
Some dongles, like the Logitech Unifying Receiver, allow you to pair multiple devices using software. Here’s how:
- Download the pairing software (e.g., Logitech’s Unifying Software) from the manufacturer’s website.
- Plug the new dongle into your computer and launch the software.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to pair your keyboard with the new dongle.
If your keyboard doesn’t support re-pairing, you may need a brand-new keyboard and dongle set.
5. Test Your Keyboard
Once paired, test your keyboard by typing to ensure it’s working properly. If it doesn’t respond, check the batteries, ensure the dongle is securely plugged in, and repeat the pairing process.
What If Your Keyboard Doesn’t Support Dongle Replacement?
If your keyboard can’t be paired with a new dongle, you have a couple of options:
- Use Bluetooth (if supported): Some wireless keyboards have both a dongle and Bluetooth capability. If this applies to your keyboard, you can connect it to your computer via Bluetooth instead of the dongle.
- Replace the Keyboard: If replacing the dongle isn’t possible and your keyboard doesn’t support Bluetooth, it might be time to invest in a new wireless keyboard. We recommend buying a keyboard with a replaceable dongle (like from the Unifying family of products)
Tips to Prevent Dongle Loss or Damage
- Attach the Dongle to Your Keyboard: Some keyboards have a compartment for storing the dongle when not in use. Always use it to avoid losing the dongle.
- Use a USB Hub: Plugging the dongle into a USB hub instead of directly into your computer can reduce wear and tear.
- Label Your Dongles: If you have multiple wireless devices, label each dongle to avoid mixing them up.
Summary
Replacing the dongle on a wireless keyboard is possible in many cases, especially if you use a brand like Logitech or Microsoft. In this post, we’ve explained how you can get your keyboard back in working order without too much hassle. And if your keyboard doesn’t support dongle replacement, you now know your options for moving forward. Whether you’re pairing a new dongle or upgrading to a Bluetooth keyboard, the key is to keep things simple and stress-free. Happy typing!
