Moving the mouse wheel changes the system volume instead of scrolling through pages or documents—this unexpected behavior often results from a feature in certain mice that support both normal and media modes. Gaming mice and some multi-function models allow toggling between these modes, but a stuck setting, accidental button press, or software conflict can switch the wheel to control volume globally on Windows 11. This guide details practical steps to restore normal scrolling and stop the mouse wheel from changing the volume.

Switch Mouse from Media Mode to Normal Mode

Step 1: Locate the DPI (dots per inch) button on your mouse. This button is typically placed between the left and right click buttons or near the scroll wheel. It's used to switch sensitivity settings and, on some models, toggles between normal and media modes.

Step 2: Press and hold the DPI button for 5 to 7 seconds. This action often toggles the mouse between media mode (where the wheel changes volume) and normal mode (where the wheel scrolls pages).

Step 3: Release the button and test the mouse wheel in a browser or document. If the wheel now scrolls content instead of adjusting volume, the mode has switched back to normal.

On some mice, especially those with additional software or custom drivers, the media mode toggle may be mapped to a different button. Refer to your mouse's user manual or manufacturer website for model-specific instructions if the DPI button does not resolve the issue.

Disconnect and Reconnect the Mouse

Step 1: Unplug the mouse from its USB port. For wireless mice, disconnect the receiver or turn off the mouse using its power switch.

Step 2: Wait at least 5 seconds, then plug the mouse back in or reconnect the wireless receiver. For battery-powered mice, remove and reinsert the batteries if possible.

Step 3: Test the mouse wheel in a web page or document. This process resets the device connection and can clear temporary glitches causing volume control behavior.

Check for Mouse Software or Driver Conflicts

Step 1: Open Device Manager by pressing Windows + X and selecting Device Manager from the menu.

Step 2: Expand the "Mice and other pointing devices" section. Right-click your mouse entry and choose Update driver. Select Search automatically for drivers to let Windows find updates, or Browse my computer for drivers if you have a manufacturer-supplied driver.

Step 3: Restart your computer after updating. If the issue persists, right-click the mouse entry and select Uninstall device. Reboot to let Windows reinstall the default driver.

Some mice come with bundled software that allows remapping buttons or wheel functions. Open the mouse configuration utility (often found in the Start menu or system tray) and check for any custom assignments to the scroll wheel. Reset all settings to default if needed.

Uninstall Conflicting Applications

Third-party applications can sometimes override mouse behavior, especially utilities designed for productivity or gaming. Applications like OneQuick or other macro tools may assign volume control to the mouse wheel.

Step 1: Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps and review recently added programs. Uninstall any software that modifies mouse or keyboard input.

Step 2: Restart your computer and test the mouse wheel again. If you’re unsure which app is responsible, perform a clean boot by typing msconfig in the Start menu, disabling all non-Microsoft services, and rebooting. This isolates software conflicts.

Reset Mouse Settings to Default

Step 1: Go to Settings > Devices > Mouse on Windows 11.

Step 2: Click Additional mouse settings and look for a button or tab labeled Restore Defaults or similar. Confirm the reset and apply changes.

Step 3: Test the wheel's behavior to confirm normal scrolling is restored.

Check for Stuck Buttons or Hardware Issues

Physical issues like a stuck volume button or scroll wheel can also cause the problem. If your mouse has dedicated volume buttons, press and release each one to ensure none are jammed. On some models, holding down the scroll wheel or a side button for several seconds toggles special modes.

If the issue appeared after dropping the mouse or after a spill, try the mouse on another computer. If it still changes volume instead of scrolling, the mouse hardware may be faulty and require replacement.

Additional Tips for Taskbar Volume Control

Windows 11 allows adjusting system volume by hovering over the taskbar speaker icon and using the mouse wheel. This only works when the pointer is over the icon or the volume slider. If you want to prevent accidental volume changes, avoid hovering the cursor over the speaker icon while scrolling.

For advanced users, disabling "Scroll inactive windows when hovering over them" in Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mouse may reduce unintentional volume changes, but this also affects window scrolling behavior system-wide.

Switching your mouse back to normal mode or updating drivers usually resolves the issue where the wheel changes volume instead of scrolling. If hardware or software conflicts persist, replacing the mouse or uninstalling problematic apps restores standard functionality quickly.