How to Fix Bluetooth Not Working After Patch Tuesday Updates on Windows 11

Bluetooth is a convenient way to connect devices wirelessly on your Windows 11 PC. Sometimes, after Patch Tuesday updates, Bluetooth may stop working suddenly. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on wireless accessories like headphones or keyboards.

Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to fix Bluetooth issues caused by recent updates. These steps are easy to follow, even if you are not very tech-savvy.

This article will guide you through basic troubleshooting methods to get your Bluetooth working again. We will also cover some advanced options if the simple fixes don’t work.

By the end, you should understand how to restore Bluetooth functionality and know where to look for further help if needed.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into troubleshooting, check the following:

Make sure your Bluetooth device is turned on and within range.
Verify that Bluetooth is enabled on your Windows 11 PC. You can find this in Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
Restart your computer once to see if the issue resolves on its own.
Ensure no airplane mode or other wireless restrictions are active.

Step 1: Restart Bluetooth Service

Windows uses a service to manage Bluetooth devices. Sometimes this service stops working after an update. Restarting it can often fix the problem.

Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog.
Type services.msc and press Enter.
In the Services window, scroll down and find Bluetooth Support Service.
Right-click it and select Restart. If it’s not running, select Start.
After restarting the service, check if Bluetooth works.

This step is important because the Bluetooth Support Service controls how Bluetooth devices connect. If it’s stopped or stuck, devices won’t work properly.

Step 2: Update Bluetooth Drivers

Windows updates sometimes install outdated or incompatible Bluetooth drivers. Updating drivers ensures your hardware and software communicate correctly.

Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Expand the Bluetooth section.
Right-click your Bluetooth adapter (usually named something like “Intel Wireless Bluetooth” or “Generic Bluetooth Adapter”) and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest version online.
If a new driver is found, install it and restart your PC.

If Windows can’t find a newer driver, visit your PC manufacturer’s website to download the latest Bluetooth driver manually.

Step 3: Run the Bluetooth Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix Bluetooth problems automatically.

Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Find Bluetooth in the list and click Run.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool is helpful because it checks common Bluetooth issues and attempts automated fixes without needing manual intervention.

Step 4: Disable and Re-enable Bluetooth

Sometimes toggling Bluetooth off and back on refreshes the connection and resolves glitches.

Click on the Bluetooth icon in the taskbar or open Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
Turn Bluetooth off, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on.
Try reconnecting your device to see if it works.

Step 5: Roll Back Windows Update (Advanced)

If Bluetooth stopped working immediately after a Patch Tuesday update and none of the above steps help, you can try uninstalling the recent update.

Open Settings and go to Windows Update.
Click on Update history.
Scroll down and select Uninstall updates.
Find the most recent cumulative update installed on Patch Tuesday, select it, then click Uninstall.
Restart your PC and check if Bluetooth works again.

Rolling back updates is recommended only if you are sure the update caused the problem. Keep your system updated for security and stability otherwise.

Alternative Method: Use System Restore

If uninstalling updates is complicated or unavailable, you can try restoring your computer to a previous state using System Restore.

Search for Create a restore point in the Start menu and open it.
Click System Restore.
Choose a restore point dated before the problematic update.
Follow the prompts to restore your system.

This method will undo recent system changes but won’t affect your personal files.

FAQs

Why did Bluetooth stop working after a Windows update?

Updates sometimes change system files or drivers that affect Bluetooth functionality. Compatibility issues or bugs in the update can also cause problems.

Can I use Bluetooth without drivers?

No. Bluetooth hardware requires proper drivers to communicate with your operating system. Without drivers, your PC won’t recognize Bluetooth devices.

How do I know if my PC supports Bluetooth?

Most modern PCs have Bluetooth built-in. You can check in Device Manager under the Bluetooth section. If it’s missing, your PC might not support Bluetooth or the driver is not installed.

Is it safe to uninstall Windows updates?

Uninstalling updates can fix issues but can also expose your PC to security risks. Only uninstall updates as a last resort or temporarily until a fix is released.

Can third-party Bluetooth adapters help?

Yes, if your internal Bluetooth is not working or not available, a USB Bluetooth adapter can be a good alternative.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and your Bluetooth still isn’t working, consider the following:

Check for new Windows updates that might fix the issue by going to Settings > Windows Update and clicking Check for updates.
Visit your PC manufacturer’s support website for specific Bluetooth driver updates or patches.
Contact Microsoft Support for help with update-related Bluetooth problems: https://support.microsoft.com.
Consider using a USB Bluetooth dongle as a workaround if your built-in adapter is faulty.

Conclusion

Bluetooth issues after Patch Tuesday updates on Windows 11 are common but usually fixable. Start with simple steps like restarting Bluetooth services and updating drivers before moving to more advanced options such as rolling back updates.

Taking the time to follow these instructions carefully can save you from unnecessary frustration and get your wireless devices connected again. Remember to keep your system and drivers up to date for the best performance.

If all else fails, use official support channels to get expert assistance. With patience and the right approach, your Bluetooth should be back up and running in no time.