To setup Microsoft Wireless Keyboard 800, plug the USB receiver into your computer and insert two AAA batteries, that's the entire core process, with no software needed. The keyboard connects automatically on a 2.4 GHz signal as soon as you turn it on, so you can start typing within seconds of unboxing.
Before you begin: what you need for your Microsoft wireless keyboard 800 setup
Your Microsoft Wireless Keyboard 800 works with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10, plus Mac OS X versions 10.4 through 10.11 and Android 3.2 through 5.0. No additional software or drivers are required for basic functionality on any of these systems, just plug in the receiver, insert batteries, and type. One critical warning: the USB receiver is factory-matched to your specific keyboard and cannot be re-paired if lost. If you misplace the receiver, the keyboard becomes unusable, so keep the dongle attached to your computer or stored in a safe place. If you have a Bluetooth model instead, you can connect a Microsoft wireless keyboard without any USB dongle at all, and a similar pairing process applies to the Microsoft wireless keyboard 3000 v2.0 how to connect.
Step 1: Plug in the USB receiver
Locate the small USB transceiver that came with your keyboard, it's a compact dongle, usually stored in a compartment on the underside of the keyboard or in the box. Insert it into an available USB 2.0 compatible port on your computer. The connection operates on a 2.4 GHz frequency range, giving you a typical wireless range of up to 15 feet (5 meters) from the receiver. Push the dongle in firmly until it clicks; your computer will recognize it automatically without prompting for drivers.
Step 2: Install the batteries
Flip the keyboard over so the bottom faces up. Find the battery compartment, it's typically near the top edge, secured by a sliding cover or a small release tab. Open it and check the diagram printed inside the compartment to confirm the correct battery type and polarity. Different documentation lists either two AAA or two AA alkaline batteries, so the diagram inside your unit is the authoritative source. Insert the batteries according to the polarity markings (+ and −) shown, then close the compartment securely. Incorrect orientation is the most common cause of a keyboard that won't power on, so double-check that each battery sits flat and matches the diagram.
Step 3: Turn on the keyboard and start typing
Locate the power switch on the keyboard, usually on the top edge near the function keys or on the side. Slide it to the "On" position. The keyboard and receiver are factory-matched, so there is no manual syncing or pairing process required. As soon as the receiver is plugged in and the keyboard has power, keystrokes transmit immediately. You don't need to press any connect buttons, run any software, or restart your computer. Just open a text document or search bar and begin typing to confirm the connection works.
Troubleshooting your Microsoft wireless keyboard 800
If the keyboard doesn't respond, work through these checks in order. First, verify the battery orientation matches the diagram inside the compartment, reversed batteries are the most frequent culprit. Next, replace the batteries with fresh alkaline ones if they're low; weak batteries cause intermittent or dead keys. Then try a different USB 2.0 port on your computer, as a faulty port can prevent the receiver from being detected. Finally, remove sources of wireless interference: move other wireless devices (like routers, cordless phones, or Bluetooth peripherals) away from the keyboard and receiver, since 2.4 GHz signals can conflict. If the keyboard still fails after these steps, the receiver may be damaged or lost, remember, it's factory-matched and cannot be replaced with a generic dongle, so your only options are to contact Microsoft support or replace the keyboard entirely. For most users, however, the setup is instant: plug in, power on, and type.
For the wider topic, see connect keyboard.
