Bluetooth pairing doesn't work on Windows 11

Anonymous
2025-01-17T16:57:01+00:00

In another post, I tried to fix a Bluetooth issue with my headphones. Now, I can't pair any Bluetooth devices. These devices can pair with my laptop and work fine, so the issue is with my PC. I've shared some screenshots of my situation. Please help me.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers

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Estrella721 46,685 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-01-20T20:11:33+00:00

Try a repair in-place upgrade, which will reinstall Windows while keeping your files and apps. This helps fix or replace any corrupted files that may be causing the problem.

Note: Before doing so, unplug all unnecessary external peripherals connected to your PC, and temporarily disable any third-party antivirus program to avoid interference.

  1. Click the 'Download now' button under 'Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)' and save it to your computer: https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/win...
  2. Run the downloaded file and select 'Yes' when prompted by User Account Control (UAC).
  3. Accept the Microsoft Software License Terms if you agree.
  4. On the 'What do you want to do?' screen, select 'Upgrade this PC now' and click 'Next.'

(This stage will download, verify, and create the Windows 11 installation media.) It will take some time to complete.

  1. Under 'Choose what to keep,' select 'Keep personal files and apps,' then click 'Next.'
  2. Click 'Install,' and the installation will begin. (This process will take some time, so please be patient.)

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  1. Anonymous
    2025-01-18T20:32:47+00:00

    When I performed the system restore, my mouse was already showing as connected; I didn’t have to pair it again. However, if I try to connect my headphones, it’s not possible.

    The possibility that my headphones are the issue is ruled out because I tried with my old headphones, my earpods, and also with my Xbox controller. None of them were able to connect via Bluetooth to my computer.

    If I were to test removing my mouse and re-pairing it, I would face the same problem. That’s why I’m avoiding doing it, so I don’t lose it again.

    I’ve searched extensively for solutions, but none have worked for me.

    It occurred to me that I could restore a backup I made a few months ago when I upgraded from Win10 to Win11. However, I don’t remember the process to restore that backup. This would be my last resort.

    I’ll try the solution you suggested and keep you updated.

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  2. Estrella721 46,685 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-01-18T20:09:48+00:00

    Hmm, that does seem unusual. I’m glad you were at least able to recover your mouse. I’m wondering if the issue might be with the headphones themselves, perhaps something like compatibility or if there’s something blocking the connection.

    Since the mouse is also a Bluetooth device and connects fine, it suggests that Bluetooth is functioning at least partially.

    Can you try performing a clean boot to check for any interference? Once you're in clean boot mode, try connecting the headphones.

    https://support.microsoft.com/topic/how-to-perf...

    If the problem goes away after a clean boot, it suggests a conflict with a third-party program. Start by enabling the programs you disabled one by one to identify the culprit.

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  3. Anonymous
    2025-01-17T23:41:26+00:00

    I’ve been really scared this whole time. Let me tell you what I’ve done:

    1. First, I restored the system to today’s date, but in the morning. My MX Ergo mouse appeared as already connected, but when I tried to connect my headphones, the issue persisted. That made me think the problem wasn’t resolved; I just went back to the point before I removed my mouse from my devices.
    2. Because of that, I decided to restore the system to a few days earlier, specifically to January 14th, with a description labeled “Windows Modules Installer.” The reason I chose that date was because I remember there was a Windows update recently. I had also downloaded the Fortect application and performed some Scan & Repair operations on my system. Maybe I didn’t notice, but something from that might have affected the Bluetooth.
    3. After restoring the system for the second time to this new date, I encountered a blue screen. I spent over an hour trying countless ways to fix it. Luckily, I was able to restore the system for the third time to today’s date, January 17th, in the morning.

    So, I’m back to square one. The Bluetooth still won’t pair, but at least I’ve recovered my mouse.

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  4. Estrella721 46,685 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-01-17T21:01:07+00:00

    Thanks for trying and for providing detailed information.

    If none of the solutions work, a System Restore might be helpful. Keep in mind that this process will uninstall programs and drivers added since the restore point was established, but your files will be safe.

    Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.

    Type "rstrui.exe" and press Enter.

    The System Restore window will open. Click "Next."

    Select a restore point from a date when your computer was working correctly.

    Click "Next," then "Finish."

    Your computer will restart, and the system will be restored to the selected restore point.

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