If copy and paste isn't working in Windows, try these steps: 1. Restart Windows Explorer. 2. Run sfc /scannow to repair system files. 3. Ensure Clipboard User Service is running. 4. Clear clipboard history with Win V or "echo off | clip". 5. Disable conflicting software like clipboard managers or antivirus tools. 6. Update or reinstall keyboard and mouse drivers.

If you're experiencing issues with copy and paste functionality in Windows, it can disrupt your workflow. Here are several methods to resolve the problem:

The operating environment of this tutorial: Dell XPS 13, Windows 11

1. Restart the Windows Explorer Process

Windows Explorer manages the graphical interface, including clipboard operations. If it becomes unresponsive, copy and paste may stop working. Restarting it can restore functionality without requiring a full system reboot.

• Press Ctrl Shift Esc to open Task Manager directly.
• Locate Windows Explorer under the Processes tab.
• Right-click on it and select Restart.
• Wait a few seconds for the desktop and taskbar to reload.

2. Run the System File Checker

Corrupted system files can interfere with core OS functions, including clipboard operations. The System File Checker (SFC) scans for and repairs missing or damaged system files.

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator by searching for cmd, then selecting "Run as administrator".
• Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
• Wait for the scan to complete—this may take 15–20 minutes.
• Restart your computer after the process finishes.

3. Check for Clipboard Service Issues

The Clipboard User Service must be running to enable copy and paste operations. If it's disabled or not functioning, clipboard actions will fail.

• Press Win R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
• Scroll down to Clipboard User Service.
• Double-click it and ensure the Startup type is set to Automatic.
• If the service is not running, click Start, then click Apply.

4. Clear the Clipboard History

A corrupted or overloaded clipboard cache can prevent new items from being copied or pasted. Clearing the history resets the clipboard buffer.

• Press Win V to open the clipboard history.
• If entries appear, click the three-dot menu and choose Clear all.
• Alternatively, use the command: Open Command Prompt and run echo off | clip to flush the clipboard data.

5. Disable Conflicting Third-Party Software

Applications such as clipboard managers, remote desktop tools, or antivirus programs may interfere with standard copy-paste operations.

• Temporarily disable any clipboard-enhancing software like Ditto or ClipX.
• Turn off real-time protection in your antivirus suite briefly to test functionality.
• Check if remote access tools (e.g., TeamViewer, AnyDesk) are active and exit them.
• Test copy and paste after closing each suspect application.

6. Update or Reinstall Keyboard and Mouse Drivers

Faulty input device drivers can prevent shortcut keys (Ctrl C, Ctrl V) from registering properly, making it seem like copy-paste is broken.

• Press Win X and select Device Manager.
• Expand Keyboards and right-click each entry, then choose Update driver.
• Repeat the process under Mice and other pointing devices.
• If updating fails, uninstall the driver, disconnect the device, restart the PC, and let Windows reinstall it automatically.

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