How to Install Bluetooth Drivers on Windows 10

Can’t find Bluetooth on your Windows 10 PC or having trouble connecting a device? You might be missing the correct Bluetooth driver. In this guide, we’ll show you how to install Bluetooth drivers on Windows 10 using four easy methods. These include Device Manager, Windows Update, downloading drivers manually, and using automatic driver installer software.

Whether your Bluetooth is not showing up in Device Manager or it suddenly disappeared from settings, these steps will help you fix it. No matter which method you choose, you’ll be able to restore Bluetooth functionality and connect your devices again in no time.

How can I install a Bluetooth driver on Windows 10?

Before you install any drivers on your PC, ensure you meet the following requirements:

• Ensure your Bluetooth feature is turned on and the Airplane mode is switched off.
• Check for Bluetooth capability on your PC.

1. Use Device Manager

1. In the Search bar type Device Manager and select it from the list.
2. Next, locate Bluetooth and expand the list.
3. Right-click on the audio device listed and select Update driver.
4. Click on Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your device at the end.

2. Update your OS

1. Press Windows + I key simultaneously to open Settings.
2. Here locate and click on Update & Security at the bottom of the list.
3. Next, in the Windows Update tab click on Check for Updates.
4. If a new update is found click on Install.
5. Once the process finishes make sure to restart your device.

3. Download and install the driver

1. Go to your manufacturer’s website and download the latest driver. (In this case Intel).
2. Save the downloaded file on your device.
3. Follow the on-screen installation instructions.
4. Make sure to Restart your computer after the installation process is complete.

4. Use a dedicated software

The safest way of installing a missing driver without having to do much is using a third-party driver updater.

Tools of this sort have the ability to check the drivers installed on your device and detect whether you have any missing, outdated or corrupt drivers.

Then, with your approval, they’ll install all of those automatically. If you’re someone who doesn’t like keeping tabs on PC maintenance, using this type of software could save a lot of time and hassle.

Why are my Bluetooth drivers missing?

Most Windows devices come pre-installed with Bluetooth devices, but if for some reason they are not present in your PC, it could be one of the reasons below:

• Outdated OS – If you’re running an old Windows device, it is possible that it is not optimized for the latest drivers. You can upgrade your OS or check for new updates.
• Incompatible device – Not all devices will connect to your PC, or you may have downloaded the wrong driver.
• Viruses/malware – Viruses and malware alter some critical functions of your device so ensure you have reliable antivirus installed.
• Corrupt system files – If you have edited your registry wrongly, you may have some corrupt system files that prevent your drivers from functioning.

How to reinstall Bluetooth drivers on PC?

Just remove your drivers and re-install them picking one of the solutions above. For more details, check out this quick video:

Summary

There you have it. These are the recommended ways of installing a missing Bluetooth driver on your Windows 10 device.

We also share a step-by-step guide on how to uninstall your Bluetooth driver especially if it is corrupted. Also, here’s what to do if your Bluetooth is not detecting devices.

If you’re on Windows 11, we also have a guide on how to download Bluetooth driver for Windows 11, so don’t miss it.

If you’re still facing issues, check out our full guides on how to reinstall Bluetooth drivers on Windows 10 and Windows 11, or see how to fix the Bluetooth driver error code 28. You might also want to look into the latest Intel Bluetooth driver updates and news on Intel’s driver releases to stay up to date.

As always, if you have additional suggestions, don’t hesitate to leave us a comment in the dedicated section below.