Resolving Bluetooth Not Available Issue on Windows 10 Devices
Bluetooth has become an essential feature in modern computing, enabling users to connect wireless headphones, speakers, keyboards, mice, smartphones, and other peripherals. But sometimes, when trying to use Bluetooth on Windows 10, you may encounter the frustrating message: “Bluetooth is not available on this device.”
This problem can occur due to missing drivers, disabled hardware, or compatibility issues. Luckily, there are several reliable solutions to get Bluetooth working again. In this guide, you’ll learn the common causes of the issue and step-by-step methods to fix it.
Common Reasons Why Bluetooth May Not Be Available
Before troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand why the issue occurs. The most common causes include:
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Missing or outdated Bluetooth drivers – If your system does not have the right drivers, Bluetooth cannot function.
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Disabled Bluetooth adapter – Sometimes the adapter is turned off in Device Manager or BIOS.
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Airplane Mode – When Airplane Mode is enabled, Bluetooth is automatically disabled.
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Corrupted system files – Windows errors may prevent the system from recognizing Bluetooth.
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Hardware compatibility – Not all PCs come with built-in Bluetooth, especially older desktops.
Knowing the cause makes it easier to apply the right fix.
Step 1: Check If Your Device Has Bluetooth
Not every computer has built-in Bluetooth. Many desktops, particularly older ones, may lack the feature.
How to Check:
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Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
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Look for a Bluetooth category in the list.
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If it exists, your PC supports Bluetooth.
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If it’s missing, your device may not have Bluetooth hardware.
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If your computer doesn’t support Bluetooth, you’ll need an external Bluetooth adapter (USB dongle).
Step 2: Enable Bluetooth in Settings
If your computer supports Bluetooth, it might simply be turned off.
Enable Bluetooth:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
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Toggle the Bluetooth switch to On.
If you don’t see the toggle option, proceed to the next step to check your drivers.
Step 3: Install or Update Bluetooth Drivers
Missing or outdated drivers are the most common reason for Bluetooth errors.
Update Drivers via Device Manager:
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Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
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Expand Bluetooth.
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Right-click your adapter (e.g., Intel Wireless Bluetooth) and choose Update driver.
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Select Search automatically for drivers.
If Windows cannot find the latest drivers, visit your device manufacturer’s website (Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, etc.) or the chipset provider (Intel, Qualcomm, Realtek) to download and install the correct version.
Step 4: Restart Bluetooth Services
Sometimes, Bluetooth services may be disabled in Windows. Restarting them can restore functionality.
Restart Services:
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Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
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Scroll down and find these services:
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Bluetooth Support Service
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Bluetooth Audio Gateway Service
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Bluetooth User Support Service
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Right-click each one, select Restart, and make sure their Startup type is set to Automatic.
After restarting, check if Bluetooth is available again.
Step 5: Disable Airplane Mode
Airplane Mode disables all wireless communication, including Bluetooth.
Turn Off Airplane Mode:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Network & Internet > Airplane Mode.
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Make sure the switch is turned off.
Alternatively, you can toggle Airplane Mode quickly using the Action Center (Windows + A).
Step 6: Run Windows Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter to detect and fix Bluetooth issues automatically.
Run Troubleshooter:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
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Select Additional troubleshooters.
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Click Bluetooth and choose Run the troubleshooter.
Follow the on-screen instructions. If problems are detected, Windows will try to repair them.
Step 7: Reinstall Bluetooth Adapter
If updating the driver doesn’t help, try reinstalling the adapter.
Reinstall the Adapter:
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Open Device Manager.
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Expand Bluetooth.
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Right-click your adapter and select Uninstall device.
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Restart your PC.
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Windows should automatically reinstall the correct drivers.
If it doesn’t, install them manually from the manufacturer’s website.
Step 8: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft frequently releases updates to fix compatibility and hardware recognition issues.
Update Windows:
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Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
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Click Check for updates.
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Install any available updates and restart your PC.
This may fix hidden issues preventing Bluetooth from working.
Step 9: Enable Bluetooth in BIOS
In rare cases, Bluetooth may be disabled in the BIOS or UEFI firmware.
Check BIOS Settings:
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Restart your PC and enter the BIOS (commonly pressing F2, F10, or Del during startup).
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Look for Integrated Peripherals or Wireless Settings.
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Ensure Bluetooth is enabled.
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Save and exit BIOS.
Once enabled, Windows should recognize the Bluetooth hardware.
Step 10: Use a Bluetooth USB Adapter
If all else fails, your device may simply lack proper Bluetooth support or have faulty hardware. In that case, the easiest solution is to purchase a USB Bluetooth adapter. These small devices plug into your computer and provide full Bluetooth functionality without requiring built-in hardware.
Conclusion
The “Bluetooth is not available on this device” error in Windows 10 can be frustrating, but in most cases, it is caused by missing drivers, disabled services, or simple configuration issues. By following the steps above—checking for hardware support, enabling Bluetooth, updating drivers, restarting services, and running troubleshooters—you can restore Bluetooth functionality and connect your wireless devices.
If your PC still doesn’t support Bluetooth, a USB adapter is a quick and affordable solution. With these fixes, you can enjoy seamless wireless connectivity once again.