Run the downloaded 17.0.18.8 installer application.
Users install version 17.0.18.8 to access the SmartSense slider in the Control Panel and turn it off, which restores simultaneous keyboard and mouse usage. Version Context Release Date: Roughly December 20, 2013. synaptics driver version 17.0.18.8
For the best performance, security, and feature support on a modern PC: Run the downloaded 17
| Issue | Workaround | |-------|-------------| | TouchPad disappears after Windows Update | Use the “Show hidden devices” in Device Manager, uninstall ghost device, reinstall driver. | | Gestures stop working after screen rotation (convertible laptops) | Reinstall the OEM’s companion utility (e.g., Lenovo Vantage, Dell QuickSet). | | Settings app (Synaptics Control Panel) does not open | Uninstall the driver, clean registry keys under HKLM\SOFTWARE\Synaptics , then reinstall. | For the best performance, security, and feature support
Compatibility & system support
Windows 10 and 11 often force-update to generic Synaptics drivers that remove the advanced settings tab. Locking to version 17.0.18.8 via group policy or driver rollback is a common power-user tactic to preserve middle-button scrolling and corner taps.