Mouse Jiggler: frequently asked questions

A mouse jiggler is a tool that simulates small mouse movements so the computer thinks someone is using it. It prevents sleep, the screen from turning off and the session from locking automatically. Mouse Jiggler does this in software, without any hardware.

Yes, completely: no ads, no account, no paid version.

Yes. Mouse Jiggler works on Windows 11 and Windows 10 (version 1809 or later), 64-bit. It has been tested automatically on Windows 10- and Windows 11-based systems.

No. The installer installs for the current user only, and the portable versions run without installation. That is why it works on many PCs where you cannot change the power settings.

In Classic mode, the cursor moves a few pixels (4 by default) and immediately comes back. In Zen mode, the cursor does not move at all: a zero-distance movement is sent, which Windows still counts as activity.

Often, but not always. Simulated input resets the Windows idle timer that many applications use to set you as “away”. Some apps use their own rules, though. If an app still shows you as away in Zen mode, try Classic mode with a small distance. Mouse Jiggler does not modify those applications.

No software can honestly promise that. Mouse Jiggler uses the standard Windows input function and Zen mode moves nothing on screen, but the program is visible in the task manager and the notification area, and a company can see installed software. Use it in line with your organisation’s rules.

Not if the policy locks the screen after a fixed time regardless of activity. Simulated input only resets the inactivity timer; it does not override such policies, and it should not be used to break your employer’s rules.

The app collects no data and does not connect to the internet. SmartScreen warns because the executable is not code-signed; click “More info” then “Run anyway”. You can verify the SHA-256 fingerprint of the file on the download page.

No: a single timer ticking once per second, under 0.5 % CPU and about 20 to 40 MB of memory in the notification area.

Click the round button, press Ctrl+Alt+J, use the tray menu, or run MouseJiggler.exe --stop. You can also set an automatic stop after a duration or at a set time.

No, Mouse Jiggler is for Windows only. On macOS, the built-in caffeinate command keeps the Mac awake.

It is an independent project inspired by it, rewritten from scratch with a new interface and new features (scheduled lock, automatic stop, five languages…). It is not affiliated with Arkane Systems.