Turning off the touch screen on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that involves accessing the Device Manager and disabling the touch screen driver. This guide will walk you through each step to ensure you can complete the task with ease. Follow along, and you’ll have your touch screen turned off in no time.
How to Turn Off Touch Screen on Windows 10
This section will take you through the steps to disable the touch screen on Windows 10. By the end, your computer will no longer respond to touch input, which can be handy for various reasons, like when using a stylus or avoiding accidental touches.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
First, press the Windows key + X and select "Device Manager" from the menu.
Device Manager is where you can control all of your hardware. Opening it is as simple as using the shortcut, so you don’t have to hunt through your settings.
Step 2: Locate Human Interface Devices
In Device Manager, find and click on the arrow next to "Human Interface Devices."
This category includes the touch screen driver. Expanding it lets you see all the input devices connected to your system.
Step 3: Disable the Touch Screen Driver
Right-click on "HID-compliant touch screen" and select "Disable device."
Disabling the device will stop it from functioning. Don’t worry, you can always enable it later if you change your mind.
Step 4: Confirm Your Choice
A warning box will appear. Click "Yes" to confirm.
This step ensures you don’t accidentally disable an essential device. Confirming it keeps the process intentional and safe.
Step 5: Close Device Manager
Close Device Manager to complete the process.
Shutting down Device Manager ensures that your changes take effect, and you can now go back to using your computer without the touch screen functionality.
After completing these steps, your touch screen will be inactive, and your computer will no longer respond to touch inputs. If you ever want to re-enable it, just follow the same steps and select "Enable device" in Step 3.
Tips for Turning Off Touch Screen on Windows 10
- Check Compatibility: Make sure your device supports turning off the touch screen. This feature might not be available on all devices.
- Backup Your Settings: Before making changes, consider backing up your current settings. It’s always good to have a safety net.
- Use External Inputs: If you rely heavily on touch input, have a mouse or external keyboard ready to use.
- Keep Updated: Ensure your Windows 10 is up to date. Sometimes, updates can affect how hardware settings are managed.
- Restart if Needed: If changes don’t take effect immediately, try restarting your computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I turn the touch screen back on?
Yes, you can easily re-enable the touch screen by following the same steps and selecting "Enable device" in Step 3.
Will this affect my computer’s warranty?
Disabling the touch screen driver usually doesn’t affect your warranty, but it’s always best to check with your manufacturer.
Is this method safe?
Yes, disabling the touch screen through Device Manager is safe and reversible. It does not delete the driver; it simply stops it from functioning.
Do I need to restart my computer?
Usually, changes take effect immediately, but if they don’t, restarting your computer can help.
Can I use third-party software to disable the touch screen?
It’s possible, but using Device Manager is the most straightforward and safest method.
Summary
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate Human Interface Devices.
- Disable the touch screen driver.
- Confirm your choice.
- Close Device Manager.
Conclusion
Disabling the touch screen on Windows 10 can simplify your computing experience, especially if you find touch input unnecessary or disruptive. Whether you’re using a stylus, avoiding accidental touches, or just prefer using a mouse and keyboard, knowing how to turn off the touch screen can be incredibly useful.
Remember, the process is reversible, so you can always re-enable the touch screen if you change your mind. Keep your device updated and back up your settings to ensure a smooth experience. By mastering these simple steps, you gain more control over your Windows 10 device.
Feel free to explore other customization options in Device Manager to make your computer work exactly the way you want. Turning off the touch screen is just the beginning. Happy customizing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.