// troubleshooting guide · microsoft powertoys
Mouse Without Borders Not Connecting
- Status
- Fixed in latest version
- platforms:
- Windows 10, Windows 11
- updated:
- November 15, 2026
- reports:
- 3
- Method
- how we research
RUNBOOK · powertoys/mouse-without-borders-not-connecting5 FIXES
// quick answer
If PCs won't pair or get stuck between Negotiation and Connecting, update both machines to PowerToys 0.102.3101 or newer (it fixed pairing and untrusted-signature errors), keep them on the same network, and add IP mappings.
Most likely fix: Update both PCs
How to fix it
// try these in order, the most common fix is first
FIX 1Update both PCs
- 01Install PowerToys 0.102.3101 or newer on every machine
- 02Use the same version on all PCs
Did this fix it?FIX 2Re-pair with a new security key
- 01Mouse Without Borders settings > generate a new key
- 02Enter the key and the other PC's name on the second machine
Did this fix it?FIX 3Put PCs on the same network
- 01Connect both to the same Wi-Fi/LAN
- 02Avoid guest networks and VPNs while pairing
Did this fix it?FIX 4Add IP address mappings
- 01Mouse Without Borders settings > IP address mapping
- 02Add each machine name with its local IP
Did this fix it?FIX 5Use the service for admin apps
- 01Enable 'Use Service' (needs admin) so control works with elevated windows
Did this fix it?
Symptoms
Pairing never completes, status loops on Negotiation/Connecting, 'untrusted signature' error, or the cursor won't cross to the other PC.
Why it happens
- C-01Pairing bug in PowerToys 0.102.2933
- C-02Different PowerToys versions on each PC
- C-03PCs on different networks or subnets
- C-04Firewall blocking the connection
- C-05Elevated apps focused without the Mouse Without Borders service
// this guide also covers
- mouse without borders not working
- mouse without borders not connecting
- mouse without borders stuck connecting
- mouse without borders untrusted signature
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