Bluetooth Not Working After Windows Update: Troubleshooting Guide

Is your Bluetooth suddenly not working after a Windows update? You’re not alone. Many users experience Bluetooth connectivity issues following a Windows update. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step solutions to get your Bluetooth devices working again.

Why Did My Bluetooth Stop Working After the Update?

Several factors can cause Bluetooth to malfunction after a Windows update:

  • Driver Issues: The update may have installed a faulty or incompatible Bluetooth driver.
  • Corrupted System Files: The update process could have corrupted system files related to Bluetooth.
  • Bluetooth Service Problems: The Bluetooth support service may be disabled or not running correctly.
  • Hardware Problems: Although less likely after an update, underlying hardware issues can sometimes surface after system changes.
  • Compatibility Issues: Some older Bluetooth devices may not be fully compatible with the latest Windows version.

Troubleshooting Steps

Here’s a comprehensive list of steps you can take to resolve the Bluetooth issue:

1. Restart Your Computer

This is the simplest solution, but often effective. A restart can resolve temporary glitches that may be preventing Bluetooth from working correctly.

2. Run the Bluetooth Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically diagnose and fix Bluetooth problems.

  1. Go to Settings (Windows key + I).
  2. Click on Update & Security.
  3. Select Troubleshoot.
  4. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
  5. Find Bluetooth and click on it, then click Run the troubleshooter.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions.

3. Update Bluetooth Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers are a common cause of Bluetooth problems. Here’s how to update them:

  1. Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Bluetooth category.
  3. Right-click on your Bluetooth adapter and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will search for and install the latest drivers.

If Windows can’t find a suitable driver, you can try downloading the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Intel, Qualcomm, or your computer manufacturer).

  • Go to the manufacturer’s website.
  • Search for the latest Bluetooth drivers for your specific computer model and operating system.
  • Download and install the drivers. You may need to uninstall the old drivers first.

4. Uninstall and Reinstall Bluetooth Drivers

If updating the drivers doesn’t work, try uninstalling and reinstalling them.

  1. Open Device Manager (as described above).
  2. Expand the Bluetooth category.
  3. Right-click on your Bluetooth adapter and select Uninstall device.
  4. Important: Check the box that says “Delete the driver software for this device”.
  5. Click Uninstall.
  6. Restart your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall the Bluetooth drivers.

5. Check Bluetooth Service Status

The Bluetooth Support Service needs to be running for Bluetooth to work correctly.

  1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. Find the Bluetooth Support Service.
  4. Right-click on it and select Properties.
  5. In the Startup type dropdown, select Automatic.
  6. If the service is not running, click Start.
  7. Click Apply and then OK.

6. Check Bluetooth Radio Status in BIOS/UEFI

In rare cases, a Windows update might inadvertently disable the Bluetooth radio in your computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings. Accessing these settings varies depending on your computer manufacturer.

  1. Restart your computer.
  2. As it starts up, press the key that opens the BIOS/UEFI setup (usually Del, F2, F12, or Esc – check your computer’s manual).
  3. Look for Bluetooth settings. They might be under “Advanced,” “Wireless,” or a similar category.
  4. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled. If it’s disabled, enable it and save your changes.
  5. Exit the BIOS/UEFI setup, and your computer will restart.

7. Check for Hardware Problems

While less likely, a hardware issue could be the root cause. Ensure the Bluetooth adapter isn’t physically damaged. If it’s an external adapter, try using it on another computer to see if it works.

8. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can interfere with Bluetooth functionality. The System File Checker (SFC) can scan for and repair corrupted system files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator. (Search for “cmd”, right-click, and select “Run as administrator”).
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.
  4. Restart your computer.

9. Perform a System Restore

If all else fails, you can try restoring your system to a point before the Windows update was installed. This will revert your system to a previous state where Bluetooth was working.

  1. Search for “Create a restore point” and open it.
  2. Click on System Restore.
  3. Choose a restore point created before the Windows update.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Warning: System Restore will remove any programs installed after the restore point was created.

Conclusion

Bluetooth issues after a Windows update can be frustrating, but by following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to get your Bluetooth devices working again. Start with the simplest solutions first, and work your way through the more complex ones. If you’re still having problems, consider contacting Microsoft support or a qualified computer technician.