This post shows students and new users how to fix common Bluetooth issues when using Windows 11. If you’re trying to connect to a Bluetooth device and running into issues, these tips and the steps below should come in handy.
Before you start troubleshooting Bluetooth device issues in Windows, please make sure and confirm that the device has Bluetooth capabilities. Some Windows 11 machines don’t have Bluetooth adapters and won’t pair with other Bluetooth enabled devices.
The first rule when troubleshooting a Bluetooth issue in Windows is to make sure the computer’s Bluetooth adapter (built-in or external) is actually attached and working, and Windows is able to recognize it.
If you’re using a laptop with a physical Bluetooth switch on the body, make sure it’s switched on. When paring a Bluetooth device, make sure that the Bluetooth device is turned on, is charged or has fresh batteries, and is in range of your PC.
In Windows 11, there are multiple ways to check if Bluetooth is turned on in Windows 11:
- Check in the taskbar. Select the Network icon on the right side of the taskbar, look for the Bluetooth quick setting, then select Bluetooth to turn it on. You’ll see “Not connected” if your Windows 11 device isn’t paired to any Bluetooth accessories.
- Check in Settings. Select the Start button, then enter settings. Select Settings > Bluetooth & devices. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
- Make sure airplane mode is off: Select the Network icon on the right side of the taskbar, then make sure the Airplane mode quick setting is turned off.
Check those three things before continuing below.
How to fix Bluetooth issues in Windows 11
As mentioned above, If you’re trying to connect to a Bluetooth device and running into issues, these tips and the steps below should come in handy.
There are multiple ways to turn on Bluetooth on Windows 10:
On the taskbar, select Quick settings. On the Quick settings fly-out window, select the Bluetooth tile to expand it, then select Bluetooth to turn it on.
Alternatively, you can turn on Bluetooth by going to the Start button, then select Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
You’ll see “Not connected” if your Windows 11 device isn’t paired to any Bluetooth accessories.
Update Bluetooth drivers in Windows 11
If the Bluetooth is on by still can not pair, then follow these steps:
Turn off your Bluetooth device, wait a few seconds, then turn it back on. You should also make sure that the Bluetooth device you wish to pair is in range of your Windows PC.
If you can turn on Bluetooth and the pairing device is in range but still having problems, try to uninstall the Bluetooth adapter and trigger an automatic reinstall.
- In the search box on the taskbar, type device manager, then select Device Manager from the results.
- In Device Manager, select Bluetooth. Press and hold (or right-click) the Bluetooth adapter name, and select Uninstall device.
- Select Start , then select Power > Restart .
- If you restart and Windows doesn’t reinstall the driver automatically, open Device Manager and select Action > Scan for hardware changes.
Run the Bluetooth Troubleshooter
If you still can’t get Bluetooth paired after the steps above, then run the Bluetooth troubleshooter.
Select Start, and go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Next to Bluetooth, select Run and follow the instructions.
When you do that, Windows will start diagnosing issues related to your Bluetooth device and connectivity. After a brief moment, depending on your computer, Windows should return with a result.
A fix will be done if one was found and Windows will give you details reasons. You can then check your Bluetooth device again.
Other help posts are listed below:
How to turn on or off Bluetooth in Windows 11
How to Pair a Bluetooth device in Windows 11
How to enable Bluetooth Swift Pair in Windows 11
Conclusion:
This brief tutorial showed you how to troubleshoot a Windows Bluetooth device that is not working. If you find any error above or have anything to add, please use the comment form below.