Copy and paste functionality can suddenly stop working due to a variety of causes. While this issue can be annoying—especially when you rely on it frequently—the good news is that it's usually easy to resolve. Below are verified troubleshooting steps to help you fix copy and paste problems in Windows 10 and 11.
Why Is Copy and Paste Not Working?
This issue has plagued Windows users for years, often appearing without warning or obvious cause. Common reasons include:
- An unpatched bug in the Windows operating system
- A software glitch in the application you're using
- Multiple programs accessing the clipboard simultaneously
- Malware interfering with clipboard operations
- Excessive clipboard history consuming resources
- Faulty keyboard or mouse hardware
- Corrupted system files
How to Fix Copy and Paste Issues in Windows 10/11
These solutions focus on software fixes. Begin at the top and work your way down, starting with the simplest:
Restart the affected app. Often, only one program is having trouble. Simply closing and reopening it can restore clipboard functionality.
Install pending Windows updates. Microsoft frequently releases patches that fix known bugs, including clipboard-related issues.
Remove clipboard-enhancing apps. If you've installed tools that modify or manage the clipboard (like clipboard managers), they may be causing conflicts. Uninstall them—use a powerful uninstaller if needed.
Close other running programs. Too many apps accessing the clipboard can cause conflicts. Use Task Manager to end unnecessary background processes.
Clear the clipboard history. A bloated or corrupted clipboard cache can cause errors. Clearing it often restores normal operation.
Restart Windows Explorer. Open Task Manager, locate Windows Explorer, right-click it, and select Restart.
Reboot your computer. A simple restart often resolves temporary glitches affecting system functions like copy and paste.
Run a malware scan. Although rare, malicious software can hijack or disable clipboard features.
Repair corrupted system files. Since copy and paste relies on core Windows components, fixing damaged files may resolve the issue.
-
Run DISM in an elevated Command Prompt:
<code> DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth</code>
This command repairs the Windows image and can fix underlying system issues.
Update your drivers. Outdated or faulty drivers for your keyboard, mouse, or touchpad can interfere with input commands.
Use System Restore. Roll back your system to a point when copy and paste was working correctly.
Reset This PC. As a last resort, reinstalling Windows through the built-in reset feature can eliminate deep-seated software conflicts.
Standard shortcuts:
- Copy: Ctrl C
- Paste: Ctrl V
- Cut: Ctrl X
You can also right-click and select the appropriate option (Copy, Cut, or Paste) from the context menu, or use the Edit menu in many applications.
The above is the detailed content of Fixing Copy Paste Not Working in Windows 10/11: Guide. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!

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