Fix Bluetooth Not Showing In Device Manager On Windows 11 & 10 (2025 Guide)

Bluetooth is a key feature for wireless connections—whether you’re pairing headphones, mice, keyboards, or mobile devices. But when Bluetooth doesn’t show up in Device Manager, it can feel like it vanished from your PC entirely.

If you’re facing this issue on Windows 10 or Windows 11, don’t worry. This detailed guide covers the most common reasons for the problem and provides 10 proven fixes to get your Bluetooth working again.

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Common Causes of Bluetooth Missing from Device Manager

1. Bluetooth adapter is disabled in BIOS or Device Manager.
2. Outdated or corrupted Bluetooth drivers.
3. Windows update conflicts or bugs.
4. Hidden or unlisted devices in Device Manager.
5. Stopped Bluetooth services.
6. Hardware issues or faulty adapters.
7. Airplane mode or power management settings disabling wireless connections.

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Fix 1: Show Hidden Devices in Device Manager

1. Press Windows + X → select Device Manager.
2. Click View → choose Show hidden devices.
3. Expand Bluetooth or Network adapters.
4. If Bluetooth appears gray, right-click → Enable device.

✅ Often, Bluetooth is simply hidden instead of missing.

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Fix 2: Restart Bluetooth Support Service

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Locate Bluetooth Support Service.
3. Right-click → Properties → set Startup type to Automatic.
4. Click Start, then Apply and OK.
5. Restart your computer.

✅ This re-activates Bluetooth if the background service was stopped.

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Fix 3: Update or Reinstall Bluetooth Drivers

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Expand Bluetooth (if visible).
3. Right-click your Bluetooth adapter → Update driver → Search automatically.
4. If Bluetooth isn’t visible, check Network adapters or Other devices.
5. Alternatively, visit your PC manufacturer’s site (Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS) to download the latest driver.

✅ Updating or reinstalling the correct driver can instantly fix the issue.

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Fix 4: Use Windows Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
2. Find Bluetooth → click Run.
3. Let Windows detect and resolve problems automatically.

✅ Ideal for quick detection of common Bluetooth errors.

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Fix 5: Enable Bluetooth in BIOS

1. Restart your PC.
2. Press the BIOS key (usually F2, F10, or Del).
3. Go to Advanced or Integrated Peripherals.
4. Ensure Bluetooth Adapter is Enabled.
5. Save changes and reboot.

✅ Sometimes Bluetooth is disabled at the hardware level in BIOS.

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Fix 6: Repair System Files Using Command Prompt

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run the following commands one by one: sfc /scannow DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
3. Wait for completion and restart your PC.

✅ Fixes corrupted system files affecting Bluetooth drivers.

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Fix 7: Check for Windows Updates

1. Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
2. Download and install all pending updates.
3. Restart your PC afterward.

✅ Microsoft often releases patches for Bluetooth and driver issues.

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Fix 8: Reinstall USB Controllers (for External Bluetooth Dongles)

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
3. Right-click each USB Root Hub → Uninstall device.
4. Restart your PC — Windows will reinstall them automatically.
5. Reconnect your Bluetooth dongle.

✅ Resolves conflicts between USB and Bluetooth devices.

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Fix 9: Turn Off Fast Startup

1. Press Windows + R, type powercfg.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Click Choose what the power buttons do.
3. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable.
4. Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).
5. Save changes and restart your PC.

✅ Ensures proper initialization of Bluetooth hardware during boot.

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Fix 10: Use System Restore (If Bluetooth Worked Before)

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
2. Choose a restore point when Bluetooth was working fine.
3. Follow the on-screen steps and restart your system.

✅ Restores your system to a previous working state without data loss.

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Additional Tips

• Check that Airplane mode is turned off.
• Keep chipset drivers and BIOS updated.
• Use Windows Troubleshooter regularly to maintain system stability.
• If you installed third-party Bluetooth software, consider removing it.
• For laptops, ensure the physical Bluetooth toggle key (if present) is turned on.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is Bluetooth missing even after driver updates?

It might be disabled in BIOS or hidden in Device Manager. Enable “Show hidden devices” to check.

2. Can I manually install Bluetooth on my PC?

Yes. Visit your laptop or motherboard manufacturer’s official website to download and install Bluetooth drivers.

3. Does Windows 11 require special Bluetooth drivers?

Not usually. Most Windows 10 drivers work fine, but always choose the latest available version.

4. How do I quickly enable Bluetooth?

Press Windows + A to open Quick Settings, then click the Bluetooth icon.

5. How do I check if my PC supports Bluetooth?

Open Device Manager → Network adapters. If you don’t see Bluetooth listed, your PC may not have a Bluetooth module.

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Conclusion

If your Bluetooth isn’t showing in Device Manager on Windows 10 or 11, the issue usually comes down to drivers, hidden devices, or disabled hardware. Start with simple steps like showing hidden devices or restarting services, then move on to BIOS checks and driver reinstalls if needed.

By following these 10 effective fixes, you’ll be able to restore Bluetooth functionality and connect your devices smoothly once again. Stay updated, keep your drivers current, and enjoy seamless wireless connectivity.in!