If Bluetooth is missing in Windows 11, use this order of checks:
- Verify the PC actually supports Bluetooth. If this is a new device or a custom-built PC, check the product specifications. Some devices do not include Bluetooth hardware.
- Make sure Airplane mode is off. Press Windows + A to open Quick Settings, then confirm Airplane mode is turned off.
- Fully power off the PC, then turn it back on.
Use a full shutdown, not Restart:
- Hold Shift
- Select Start > Power > Shut down
- Wait about 1 minute
- Turn the PC back on
- Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter. Go to Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Bluetooth > Run.
- Check Device Manager for the Bluetooth adapter.
- Right-click Start > Device Manager
- Expand Bluetooth
- Look for the Bluetooth adapter name
- If it is missing there, also check Other devices
- Update the Bluetooth driver.
In Device Manager:
- Right-click the Bluetooth adapter
- Select Update driver > Search automatically for drivers
- Complete the update and restart the PC if prompted
- If Windows says the best driver is already installed, install the driver from the PC manufacturer. Generic Windows drivers do not always work correctly. Download the Bluetooth or wireless driver for the exact PC or motherboard model from the manufacturer’s support site, install it, then restart.
- If Bluetooth appears in Device Manager but not in Settings, reinstall the adapter.
- Open Device Manager
- Expand Bluetooth
- Right-click the Bluetooth adapter
- Select Uninstall device > Uninstall
- Select Start > Power > Shut down
- Turn the PC back on
- Check for optional firmware updates. Go to Start > Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates. Install any available updates, especially BIOS, UEFI, or firmware-related updates, then restart.
- If Bluetooth is still missing, contact the PC manufacturer. Missing or grayed-out Bluetooth in Windows 11 is commonly caused by Bluetooth driver or firmware problems specific to the device model.