How to turn on Bluetooth in Windows 11

You have an online meeting in 30 minutes, and you’re searching frantically for a way to connect your laptop to your Bluetooth-enabled earbuds. But you can’t find the setting on your Windows 11 laptop. Where is it?

Whether you’re having Windows 11 issues or need to connect a Bluetooth device, we have a solution you can trust. Here’s how to turn on Bluetooth on Windows 11 in just a few steps.

Follow either method to turn on Bluetooth in Windows 11

Windows supports wireless connections with Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature allows you to use Bluetooth accessories such as earbuds, keyboards, and microphones with your Windows 11 computer. It simplifies your setup so you’re not limited to wired external devices. 

There are two ways to turn on Bluetooth in Windows 11, and it doesn’t matter which method you use. Each one accomplishes the same goal—a connection to your device. Pick the one that feels most comfortable to you.

Use Windows Settings

This connection method is useful for pairing a device for the first time: 

1. Put your Bluetooth device in discovery mode. If you’re not sure how to do that, check the user manual.
2. Click Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices. 
3. Turn the Bluetooth switch to On.
4. Wait for your Bluetooth accessory to appear as a square tile underneath the Bluetooth & devices heading. Click the device’s name to complete the connection.

If the device doesn’t show up underneath the Bluetooth & devices heading, take these steps.

1. Click Add device.
2. Click Bluetooth.
3. Click the name of the device once it appears.

Turn on Bluetooth through quick settings

This option gives you a fast way to turn on Bluetooth. It’s best for devices you’ve already paired with your computer:

1. Put your Bluetooth device in discovery mode. If you’re not sure how to do that, check the user manual.
2. Click the Network, Sound, or Battery icons in the taskbar.
3. Click the Bluetooth icon to turn it on. 
4. Click the arrow next to the Bluetooth icon to view a list of available devices.
5. Click the device’s name to complete the connection.

Troubleshooting tips if Bluetooth won’t turn on

Make sure your PC supports Bluetooth

Most computers manufactured after 2010 include Bluetooth functionality, but some may not. If you're unsure, check your device’s user manual. If your computer doesn’t have it, you can purchase a Bluetooth adapter and plug it into your device.

Turn on Bluetooth via Device Manager

Verify that the Bluetooth driver is enabled for your Windows 11 computer. If it’s disabled, you won’t be able to connect Bluetooth accessories:

1. Right-click Start > Device Manager.
2. Right-click the arrow next to Bluetooth.
3. Right-click the name of the Bluetooth adapter.
4. Click Enable device.

Restart your computer

Reboot your PC to clear temporary glitches that prevent Bluetooth use. Click Start > Power > Restart to complete the process. 

Update Bluetooth drivers

An outdated Bluetooth driver may not recognize newer accessories. Update the driver through the Device Manager:

1. Right-click Start > Device Manager.
2. Right-click the arrow next to Bluetooth.
3. Right-click the name of the Bluetooth adapter.
4. Click Update driver > Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. Follow the prompts to download and install the driver software.

Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that identifies common issues and provides a quick solution. To access it, follow these steps:

1. Click Start > Settings > System.
2. Click Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Locate Bluetooth. Click Run. 

FAQs

How do I reinstall Bluetooth drivers in Windows 11?

Windows will automatically reinstall the Bluetooth adapter for you after uninstalling it. 

1. Right-click Start > Device Manager.
2. Right-click the arrow next to Bluetooth.
3. Right-click the name of the Bluetooth adapter.
4. Click Uninstall device > Uninstall.
5. Click Start > Power > Shut down.

Wait a few minutes before restarting your PC. Check the Device Manager to confirm the new Bluetooth driver is enabled. 

Why won’t my Bluetooth headphones connect in Windows 11?

Your headphones may not be in discovery mode. Make them discoverable before turning on Bluetooth for your Windows 11 PC. After enabling Bluetooth, select the headphones from the list of available devices to complete the connection.

How can I check if my PC supports Bluetooth?

Use the Windows Device Manager to see whether you have a Bluetooth driver on your PC.

1. Right-click Start > Device Manager.
2. Locate Bluetooth. Right-click the arrow next to Bluetooth.
3. View the Bluetooth driver.

If Bluetooth doesn’t appear in the Device Manager, your device may not support it. Check the user manual to confirm Bluetooth functionality.