Mouse Jiggler

Mouse Jiggler is a very simple piece of software whose sole function is to "fake" mouse input to Windows PC and jiggle the mouse pointer back and forth. Mouse Jiggler is a free product provided without warranty or support.

Useful for avoiding desktop screensavers or other things triggered by idle detection that, for whatever reason, you can't turn off any other way; or as a quick way to stop a screensaver activating during an installation or when monitoring a long operation without actually having to muck about with the screensaver settings.

Simply run the MouseJiggle.exe included in the release .zip file. Check the "Enable jiggle?" checkbox to start jiggling the mouse pointer; uncheck it to stop. The jiggle is slight enough that you should be able to use the computer normally, even with jiggling enabled.

Portable Version

A portable version of Mouse Jiggler (i.e., one which does not require the .NET runtime, and so can be installed on locked-down corporate machines that don't have it installed) is available on the releases page, as MouseJiggler-portable.zip. Just unzip and go.

Operation

• The 'Zen jiggle?' checkbox enables a mode in which the pointer is jiggled 'virtually' - the system believes it to be moving and thus screen saver activation, etc., is prevented, but the pointer does not actually move.
• To minimize this program to the system tray, click the button marked with a green, down-pointing arrow.
• If you want to start the MouseJiggler with jiggling already enabled, run the MouseJiggle.exe with either the -j or --jiggle command-line switch.
• The "-z" / "--zen" command-line switch forces zen jiggling to be enabled for the current (and future) invocations of MouseJiggler.
• (Added in 1.5+): The "-m" / "--minimized" command-like switch tells MouseJiggler to start already minimized.

FAQs

What is Mouse Jiggler used for?
Mouse Jiggler is a small Windows utility designed to prevent your computer from going idle. It simulates mouse movement, which helps keep your system awake and prevents screen savers, sleep mode, or automatic lock from activating.

Does Mouse Jiggler physically move the cursor on the screen?
It can, but it doesn’t have to. Mouse Jiggler offers two modes:

• Normal mode, which visibly moves the cursor slightly.
• “Zen jiggle” mode, which simulates mouse input without actually moving the visible cursor on the screen.

This makes it useful when you want to prevent inactivity without disturbing your work.

Is Mouse Jiggler safe and legitimate to use?
Yes. Mouse Jiggler is an open-source utility available on GitHub, which means its source code can be reviewed publicly. It does not contain hidden background services or bundled software. As with any tool, users should download it only from the official repository and use it in accordance with workplace policies if installed on a company device.

PROS

• Simple to Use: This program is straightforward to operate, requiring no advanced setup.
• Portable: The tool is lightweight and doesn’t need installation, making it convenient to carry on a USB stick.
• Prevents Sleep Mode: It effectively prevents your computer from entering sleep mode by simulating mouse movements.
• Open-Source: Being open-source, it's free to use and can be modified to suit specific needs.
• No Installation Required: It runs as a standalone executable, avoiding system modifications.

CONS

• Limited Functionality: The tool's primary function is basic, with no additional features for more complex tasks.
• No Customization: The app doesn’t offer advanced settings for mouse movements, limiting its versatility.

Note: Requires .NET Framework.