The Bluetooth functionality of Windows 11 allows you to connect and pair other devices wirelessly to your computer. Unfortunately, some users have complained that Windows 11 Bluetooth is not working; the Bluetooth icon is missing, Bluetooth is not enabled, devices cannot be found or paired, etc.
An outdated driver, interference from other devices, or the distance from Bluetooth may cause these problems. In this guide, we show you the best fixes, but first, make sure you are in range and turn off other devices that may cause interference.
What do I do if my Windows 11 Bluetooth is not working?
Pre-solution 1: Ensure Bluetooth is Enabled and Discoverable
In some cases, there may be no problem with the Bluetooth; it only isn’t enabled. So, it is good to confirm this before further troubleshooting. You should also make sure Bluetooth is Discoverable. Here is how you enable Bluetooth on Windows 11.
Step 1: Click on the Taskbar’s network icon, and click the forward-pointing Bluetooth arrow to reveal more options.
Step 2: Toggle on the Bluetooth switch.
Step 3: Click Windows + I to open the Settings app.
Step 4: Click Bluetooth & devices on the left pane and Devices on the right.
Step 4: Set Bluetooth devices discovery to Advanced.
Pre-solution 2: Confirm your Bluetooth device works well
Ensure the Bluetooth device is switched on, has new batteries, or is fully charged and within range. If necessary, turn off the device, and restart it after a few seconds.
1. Run the Bluetooth Troubleshooter
Windows 11 Bluetooth troubleshooter can automatically detect problems with your Bluetooth by running tests on Bluetooth hardware and software. It will check for outdated or corrupt Bluetooth drivers, reset Bluetooth adapters, and fix pairing problems.
Step 1: Click Windows + I to open the Settings app.
Step 2: Click Troubleshoot on the right pane of the Settings app.
Step 3: Click Other troubleshooters.
Step 4: Click the Run button for Bluetooth.
Step 5: Apply any recommended fixes.
2. Update Bluetooth Drivers
Drivers are the link between hardware and software. So when the Bluetooth drivers are outdated, you may expect connection problems between Windows 11 and your devices. Here is how to update your Bluetooth drivers:
Step 1: Click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Step 2: Expand the Bluetooth category, right-click on your driver, and select Update driver.
Step 3: Click Search automatically for drivers.
Step 4: Follow the wizard to complete the process.
3. Reinstall Bluetooth Adapter
Reinstalling the Bluetooth driver will remove corrupt or outdated drivers. This is a practical solution if Windows 11 Bluetooth is not working because of corruption. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Step 2: Expand the Bluetooth category, right-click on your driver, and select Update device.
Step 3: Confirm your choice by selecting Uninstall.
Step 4: Restart your computer, open the Device Manager, and click the Scan for hardware changes icon to reinstall the driver.
4. Restart Bluetooth services
Restarting the Bluetooth services will clear any temporary errors and glitches. It will also reset your adapter settings to its default and may install newer driver versions. You can reset the Bluetooth Audio Gateway, Support, and User Support services with the steps below.
Step 1: Type services in Windows Search and select the Services app.
Step 2: Double-click Bluetooth Audio Gateway Service.
Step 3: Click the Stop button.
Step 4: Once again, double-click Bluetooth Audio Gateway Service; this time, change the Startup type to Automatic, click the Start button, then click Apply and OK.
Step 5: Perform steps 2 to 4 for Bluetooth Support, Bluetooth User Support Service_1a7c8e29, and any other Bluetooth service on the list of services.
5. Troubleshoot Bluetooth Accessories
If Bluetooth is enabled and discoverable, you may need to troubleshoot the connecting devices individually. This may be a printer, Bluetooth speaker, keyboard, mouse, or pen.
You may start by restarting the devices, switching Bluetooth buttons when available, or updating their specific drivers.
FAQ on Windows 11 Bluetooth not Working
1. How do I get Bluetooth back on Windows 11?
You need to toggle on the Bluetooth enable switch in your Bluetooth settings as we did in pre-solution 1.
2. Why did my Bluetooth option disappear from Windows 11?
If you cannot find the Bluetooth option in the Settings app, it may be due to the hardware being unsupported, damaged, disabled, damaged, or there could be a driver issue.
3. Why is Bluetooth not showing in Device Manager?
Bluetooth can be absent from the Device Manager due to corruption or damage to a system file that controls the Bluetooth function.
4. Do all Windows 11 have Bluetooth?
Bluetooth on devices is becoming increasingly popular, but not all Windows 11 devices have Bluetooth. You may read our guide on how to check if your PC supports Bluetooth 4.0.
Getting the best out of your Bluetooth
In conclusion, you must note that Bluetooth problems may come from your Windows 11 devices or the third-party hardware you are trying to connect. Comprehensive troubleshooting will include most of the solutions in this guide.
Hopefully, you can now connect to your Bluetooth devices hitch-free.