The mouse, sometimes called a pointer, is a manual input device that allows you to control objects on a computer screen.

Whether using a laser or a ball, or wired or wireless, any movement the mouse detects sends instructions to the computer to move the cursor on the screen and interact with files, windows, and other software elements.

Although the mouse is a peripheral device that resides outside the computer case, it is an essential part of the computer hardware in most systems, at least those that do not have a touchscreen.

Computer mice come in all shapes and sizes, but they are all designed to fit either the left or right hand and can be used on a flat surface.