How to Fix It When Copy and Paste Isn't Working in Windows 10/11

Below is a list of solutions we’ve confirmed will work when copy and paste is broken.

These tips work on Windows 11, Windows 10, and older versions of Windows.

Why Isn’t My Copy and Paste Working?

See our guide onHow to Fix It When a Keyboard Won’t Typefor better solutions.

Yourmouse not workingis similar.

Install any available Windows updates.

Sometimes Windows just doesn’t work like we want it to.

If an update isn’t available, you might have to work around the problem.

Then, try topaste with Ctrl+V.

One of the most common causes of this issue is an app that’s interfering with the clipboard.

If you struggle to remove them, try adedicated app uninstallerto force them out.

Close all other applications.

There might be a clipboard conflict happening if more than one app is trying to copy or paste.

If you have to,use Task Manager to force-quit appsrunning in the background.

It’s easy to do:Open Task Manager, right-clickWindows Explorerin the list of processes, then chooseRestart.

Although unlikely, a virus can affect the clipboard.

It’s highly unlikely for a virus infection to breakjustthe copy and paste functionality.

If malware is behind this problem, it has probably broken more than just the clipboard.

Be sure you’re running agood antivirus programto help prevent this from happening in the future.

Repair corrupted Windows system files.

Copy and paste is a core function that relies on certain system files to work properly.

Repairing these files can reverse the problem.

Drivers are necessary for your keyboard and mouse to work properly.

This tool can revert certain system files to a previous time.

UseReset This PCto reinstall Windows.

You’ll have the option to keep or delete your files; either choice is fine.

The keyboard shortcuts in most programs areCtrl+Cto copy andCtrl+Vto paste.

you’re able to also right-click an item and chooseCopyandPastefrom the options menu.

The keyboard shortcut for the cut command in most Windows programsCtrl+X.

Alternatively, go toEdit>Cut, or right-click and selectCutfrom the menu.

To paste, useCtrl+V.