Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions. Many people are under the mistaken impression that a Microsoft wireless mouse and keyboard will not work under Linux. Although each Linux installation is a little different, in most cases installing and using a Microsoft wireless mouse under Linux is very easy.
Step 1
Open your wireless mouse if the batteries aren't already installed. Some mice have a catch on the bottom that secures the top cover of the mouse. For other mice, simply slide the top cover backward to release it from the mouse base.
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Step 2
Install batteries. Make sure the batteries point in the direction indicated by the illustration inside the battery compartment.
Step 3
Put the cover back on the mouse. Look at the bottom of the mouse. You should see a red LED light shining from a hole. If you don't, click a mouse button. If the LED doesn't come on, check the batteries. If they are installed correctly, replace them with a different pair of batteries. If this doesn't cause the light to come on, your mouse may be broken.
Step 4
Plug the USB base station into a USB port on your computer. Some USB base stations have an LED that flashes as it looks for a compatible mouse, others may not. Wait about 60 seconds for Ubuntu to fully recognize the USB base station.
Step 5
Press the button on the base station. This will put the base station into pairing mode. On some base stations, an LED will flash when it's in pairing mode.
Step 6
Press the "Connect" button on the bottom of the mouse to pair the mouse to the base station. When paired, the LED on some base stations will go out.
Step 7
Restart your system. In most cases, your windowing system won't formally recognize inputs from your wireless mouse until your system is fully restarted.
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