Bluetooth connectivity issues on Windows 10 can be a real headache. Whether your device isn’t showing up, can’t pair, or keeps disconnecting, there are several ways to troubleshoot and fix these problems. By following these steps, you can get your Bluetooth functioning properly again in no time.
How to Fix Bluetooth on Windows 10
In this guide, we’ll cover how to address common Bluetooth issues on Windows 10. These steps will help you determine if your Bluetooth driver needs an update, if the service needs to be restarted, or if there’s an issue with the device itself.
Step 1: Check if Bluetooth is Enabled
The first step is to ensure that Bluetooth is turned on.
Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Devices’ > ‘Bluetooth & other devices’ and toggle the Bluetooth switch to ‘On’.
Sometimes, it’s as simple as making sure the switch is actually turned on. If it’s off, turn it on and see if your device connects.
Step 2: Restart Bluetooth Services
Restarting the Bluetooth service can resolve many issues.
Press ‘Win + R’, type ‘services.msc’, and press ‘Enter’. Scroll down to ‘Bluetooth Support Service’, right-click, and select ‘Restart’.
Restarting the service can fix glitches that may be causing connectivity issues.
Step 3: Update Bluetooth Driver
An outdated or corrupted driver can be the root of your problems.
Right-click the ‘Start’ button and select ‘Device Manager’. Find ‘Bluetooth’, right-click your Bluetooth adapter, and choose ‘Update driver’.
Updating the driver can resolve compatibility issues that might be preventing your Bluetooth from working correctly.
Step 4: Remove and Re-add the Device
Sometimes re-pairing the device can solve the issue.
Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Devices’ > ‘Bluetooth & other devices’. Click the device you’re having trouble with and select ‘Remove’. Then, re-add the device.
Re-pairing can reset the connection between your devices and fix any pairing issues.
Step 5: Run the Bluetooth Troubleshooter
Windows 10 has a built-in troubleshooter for resolving Bluetooth issues.
Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Update & Security’ > ‘Troubleshoot’. Click ‘Bluetooth’ and then ‘Run the troubleshooter’.
The troubleshooter will automatically detect and attempt to fix problems with your Bluetooth connection.
After completing these steps, your Bluetooth should be up and running smoothly. Remember to reboot your computer to apply any changes made during troubleshooting.
Tips for Fixing Bluetooth on Windows 10
- Keep Drivers Updated: Regularly check for driver updates to maintain compatibility with new devices and software.
- Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes, Bluetooth issues are resolved through Windows updates that include important fixes.
- Keep Devices Charged: Make sure your Bluetooth devices are fully charged as low battery can affect connectivity.
- Disable Airplane Mode: Ensure Airplane mode is off, as it disables all wireless communications including Bluetooth.
- Limit Interference: Keep Bluetooth devices away from other electronic devices that may cause signal interference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Bluetooth not working on Windows 10?
There could be several reasons, including outdated drivers, disabled services, or hardware issues. Following the steps in this guide can help identify and resolve the problem.
How do I know if my PC has Bluetooth?
Check ‘Device Manager’ for a Bluetooth section. If it’s there, your PC has Bluetooth. You can also check under ‘Settings’ > ‘Devices’ > ‘Bluetooth & other devices’.
Can I add Bluetooth to my computer?
Yes, if your computer doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, you can use a USB Bluetooth adapter.
Why does my Bluetooth keep disconnecting?
Interference, low battery, or distance between devices can cause disconnections. Ensuring your devices are within range and fully charged may help.
How can I restart my Bluetooth on Windows 10?
You can restart Bluetooth via the ‘Bluetooth Support Service’ in ‘services.msc’ or by toggling the Bluetooth switch off and on in ‘Settings’.
Summary
- Check if Bluetooth is Enabled
- Restart Bluetooth Services
- Update Bluetooth Driver
- Remove and Re-add the Device
- Run the Bluetooth Troubleshooter
Conclusion
And there you have it—a comprehensive guide on how to fix Bluetooth issues on Windows 10. Bluetooth problems can be frustrating, but with the right steps, they can usually be resolved quickly. Keep your drivers and Windows updated, restart services when needed, and don’t forget about the built-in troubleshooter. If all else fails, a simple unpair and repair of the device can sometimes do the trick.
For further reading, you might want to check out articles on maintaining your Windows 10 system or how to optimize your computer’s performance. Now, go ahead and fix that Bluetooth!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.