If your Synaptics touchpad isn't functioning correctly on your Windows 11 PC, updating or reinstalling the touchpad driver may resolve the issue. An outdated or missing driver can cause problems like the touchpad not responding or advanced features like multi-finger gestures not working. Below, we'll explore effective methods to download and install the Synaptics touchpad driver, ensuring your touchpad works smoothly.

Use the Device Manufacturer's Website

One of the most reliable ways to obtain the correct Synaptics touchpad driver is through your device manufacturer's website. This method ensures you get the latest driver specifically designed for your laptop model.

Here are support websites for major device manufacturers:

Note: The following steps use an HP device as an example.
  1. Open your web browser and navigate to your device manufacturer's support website. Then, select your product category, family, or series.
  1. Enter your laptop's serial number in the provided field and click Submit. If you're unsure of your serial number, you can choose the option to automatically detect your product, which may require downloading a detection tool.
  1. If you selected automatic detection, agree to the terms and click Start download to download the detection software.
  1. After downloading, locate the .EXE file in your downloads folder and double-click it to install the detection tool.
  1. Once installed, the website should automatically detect your device model and display the available drivers.
  1. Find the Keyboard & Mouse/Input Devices category and expand it. Then, click Download next to the latest Synaptics touchpad driver.
  1. After the download is complete, open the .EXE file to begin the installation process.
  1. Follow the on-screen instructions by clicking Next to proceed through the installation wizard.
  1. Accept the license agreement by selecting the option I agree to the terms in the license agreement, then click Next.
  1. Click Next to begin the installation.
  1. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer to apply the changes.

By following these steps, you've successfully installed the Synaptics touchpad driver from your device manufacturer's website, ensuring optimal performance of your touchpad.

Use Device Manager

If you prefer, you can also update the Synaptics touchpad driver using Device Manager. This method allows Windows to search for and install the latest driver available.

  1. Click on the Start menu and type Device Manager, then select it from the search results.
  1. In Device Manager, expand Mice and other pointing devices.
  2. Right-click on your touchpad device (it may be listed as Synaptics Touchpad) and select Update driver.

If you don't see your touchpad listed, right-click on Mice and other pointing devices and select Scan for hardware changes.

  1. In the Update Drivers window, click on Search automatically for drivers. Windows will search for the latest driver and install it if available.

After the installation, restart your computer to ensure the new driver is properly loaded.

By updating or reinstalling the Synaptics touchpad driver, you should now have restored full functionality to your touchpad on Windows 11.