How to Install Bluetooth Drivers on Windows 10 & Windows 11
If Bluetooth has stopped working on your Windows PC or you’re missing the Bluetooth icon entirely, the issue could be outdated or missing drivers. In this guide, you’ll learn how to install or update Bluetooth drivers on both Windows 10 and Windows 11. This quick and effective fix is especially useful if your device suddenly can’t detect Bluetooth accessories or the option has disappeared from Settings.
Why You Might Be Looking for This Tutorial
There are several reasons you might be searching for how to install Bluetooth drivers on your Windows device:
- Bluetooth icon is missing from the taskbar
- Bluetooth settings are not available in the Settings app
- You can’t pair Bluetooth devices like headphones, mice, or controllers
- Bluetooth stopped working after a Windows update or reset
- You recently reinstalled Windows and drivers were not restored
Installing or updating your Bluetooth drivers is often the fastest solution to restore full wireless connectivity.
Steps to Install Bluetooth Drivers on Windows 10 & Windows 11
Follow these steps to install or update your Bluetooth drivers manually:
1. Check for Bluetooth in Device Manager
- Press
Windows + Xand select Device Manager. - Look for Bluetooth in the list. If it’s missing, try clicking View > Show hidden devices.
- If Bluetooth appears, expand the section and check for any device with a yellow warning icon.
2. Download the Latest Bluetooth Drivers
If your PC uses an Intel Bluetooth adapter (most modern laptops and desktops do), you can download the latest drivers directly from Intel:
- Go to the official Intel Bluetooth driver page: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/download/
- Search for Intel Wireless Bluetooth for Windows 10 and Windows 11.
- Choose the correct version based on your system (32-bit or 64-bit).
- Download and run the installer.
Tip: You can check your system type by going to Settings > System > About and looking under “System type.”
3. Install the Bluetooth Driver
- Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Once installed, restart your computer.
- After reboot, check the Device Manager to ensure Bluetooth is now listed without errors.
4. Enable Bluetooth from Settings
- Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices (Windows 10) or Settings > Bluetooth & devices (Windows 11).
- Turn Bluetooth on.
- Try pairing a Bluetooth device to confirm it’s working.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
- Windows Update: Go to Settings > Windows Update, check for updates, and install any available optional driver updates.
- Use Manufacturer Tools: If you have a Dell, HP, Lenovo, or other branded laptop, visit their support page and download drivers using your device’s model number.
- Run Bluetooth Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the Bluetooth troubleshooter.
Installing the correct Bluetooth drivers on Windows 10 or 11 can resolve most connectivity issues and restore missing functionality. Always make sure your system drivers stay up-to-date to avoid similar problems in the future.
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