Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center is the official configuration software for Microsoft mice and keyboards. It lets you customize button functions, create application-specific settings, configure gestures, and fine-tune your peripheral settings.
Step 1: Download and Install
- Go to Microsoft Download Center:
- Visit microsoft.com/accessories
- Search for "Mouse and Keyboard Center"
- Download the installer:
- Select the version matching your Windows (64-bit recommended)
- Run the installer:
- Double-click the downloaded file
- Click Yes on User Account Control
- Follow the installation wizard
- Restart if prompted
Note: The software may also install automatically via Windows Update when you connect a supported device.
Step 2: Connect Your Device
USB Devices
- Plug the USB receiver or cable into your computer
- Wait for Windows to detect the device
- Mouse and Keyboard Center should recognize it automatically
Bluetooth Devices
- Put your device in pairing mode (usually hold the pairing button for 3-5 seconds)
- Go to Windows Settings > Bluetooth & devices
- Click Add device > Bluetooth
- Select your Microsoft device from the list
- Open Mouse and Keyboard Center to configure
Step 3: Customize Your Mouse
Open Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center from the Start menu.
Button Assignments
- Click on any button in the diagram to reassign its function
- Choose from preset actions:
- Back/Forward navigation
- Copy/Paste
- Open specific programs
- Zoom in/out
- Media controls
- Or assign custom keystrokes and macros
Tracking Speed
- Adjust the Pointer speed slider for cursor sensitivity
- Enable or disable Enhance pointer precision
Scroll Wheel
- Adjust scroll speed
- Configure horizontal scrolling (if supported)
- Assign middle-click action
Step 4: Customize Your Keyboard
Key Assignments
- Remap special function keys
- Customize media keys
- Assign macros to programmable keys
Key Repeat Settings
- Adjust repeat delay (time before key starts repeating)
- Adjust repeat rate (speed of repeated characters)
Application-Specific Settings
Create different button mappings for specific programs:
- In Mouse and Keyboard Center, click App-specific settings
- Click Add New
- Select or browse for an application
- Configure buttons for that specific app
- Settings automatically switch when the app is active
Example uses:
- Side buttons for undo/redo in design apps
- Side buttons for back/forward in browsers
- Custom shortcuts for video editing software
Troubleshooting
Device not detected
- Reconnect the device or USB receiver
- Try a different USB port (USB 2.0 often works better)
- Replace batteries in wireless devices
- Re-pair Bluetooth devices
- Reinstall Mouse and Keyboard Center
Settings not saving
- Run the software as Administrator
- Check that the device is fully recognized
- Restart the Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center service
Lag or disconnections (Bluetooth)
- Ensure device is within range
- Check for Bluetooth driver updates
- Remove other Bluetooth devices causing interference
- Consider using the USB receiver if available