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How to Fix Bluetooth Not Working in Windows 10 Version 2004: Step-by-Step Guide

Bluetooth is a handy feature for connecting wireless devices like headphones, keyboards, and mice to your Windows 10 computer. Sometimes, Bluetooth may stop working after an update or due to software glitches. Fixing Bluetooth issues in Windows 10 Version 2004 can be straightforward if you follow the right steps carefully.

This guide will walk you through simple and detailed solutions to get your Bluetooth working again. Each step is explained clearly, assuming no advanced technical knowledge. By the end, you should be able to enjoy your Bluetooth devices without hassle.

Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting steps.

Remember, patience and carefully following each step will help you resolve the problem efficiently.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

  • Ensure Bluetooth is turned on: Sometimes the Bluetooth toggle might be off. Check this in the Settings.
  • Make sure your device supports Bluetooth: Not all computers have Bluetooth hardware installed.
  • Check if your Bluetooth device is charged and in pairing mode: Devices like headphones need to be discoverable.
  • Restart your computer: A simple reboot can fix many temporary glitches.

Step 1: Turn Bluetooth On and Off

First, verify if Bluetooth is enabled on your computer. This basic step can fix minor glitches where Bluetooth is accidentally turned off.

  1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Devices and then click on Bluetooth & other devices.
  3. Make sure the Bluetooth toggle is switched to On. If it is already on, try turning it off, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on.

This simple step refreshes the Bluetooth service and can resolve basic connection issues.

Step 2: Run the Bluetooth Troubleshooter

Windows 10 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically find and fix Bluetooth problems.

  1. Open Settings and go to Update & Security.
  2. Click on Troubleshoot in the left menu.
  3. Scroll down and select Bluetooth, then click Run the troubleshooter.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will detect issues and suggest fixes or apply them automatically.

Using the troubleshooter saves time and can fix common configuration problems.

Step 3: Check Bluetooth Services

Bluetooth relies on certain Windows services to run properly. If these services are stopped or disabled, Bluetooth won’t work.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open the Services window.
  3. Scroll down and find Bluetooth Support Service.
  4. Right-click on it and choose Properties.
  5. Set the Startup type to Automatic if it isn’t already.
  6. If the service is not running, click Start.
  7. Click Apply and then OK.

Ensuring the Bluetooth Support Service is running is essential because Windows uses it to manage Bluetooth devices.

Step 4: Update Bluetooth Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a common cause of Bluetooth issues. Updating your Bluetooth drivers can fix compatibility problems introduced in Windows 10 Version 2004.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the category labeled Bluetooth.
  3. Right-click your Bluetooth device (usually has a name like “Intel Wireless Bluetooth” or similar) and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Let Windows search and install any available updates.
  6. After updating, restart your computer to apply changes.

If Windows cannot find an updated driver, visit your PC manufacturer’s website to download the latest Bluetooth driver manually.

Step 5: Reinstall the Bluetooth Device

If updating drivers doesn’t help, reinstalling the Bluetooth device can reset its configuration.

  1. Open Device Manager again.
  2. Expand Bluetooth, right-click your Bluetooth device, and select Uninstall device.
  3. Confirm any prompts to uninstall.
  4. Restart your computer. Windows will automatically detect the Bluetooth hardware and reinstall the drivers.

This process clears any driver corruption or configuration errors.

Step 6: Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve hardware compatibility.

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates.
  3. Install all available updates, especially optional hardware updates.
  4. Restart your PC if required.

Keeping Windows up to date solves many driver and software conflicts affecting Bluetooth.

Alternative and Advanced Options

If the above steps don’t work, you can try the following:

  • Reset Bluetooth using Command Prompt: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run the command:
net stop bthserv
net start bthserv

This restarts the Bluetooth service without needing a full reboot.

  • Check Airplane Mode: Make sure Airplane Mode is off as it disables wireless communications including Bluetooth.
  • Use System Restore: If Bluetooth stopped working after a recent change, restoring Windows to an earlier point might help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Bluetooth keep turning off by itself?

It could be due to power management settings. To fix, go to Device Manager, right-click your Bluetooth adapter, choose Properties, go to the Power Management tab, and uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”

My Bluetooth device isn’t discoverable. What should I do?

Ensure the device is in pairing mode and close enough to your PC. Also, check that Bluetooth is enabled on your PC and that you are trying to pair within a reasonable range.

Can Windows 10 Version 2004 cause Bluetooth problems?

Yes, some updates may introduce compatibility issues. That’s why updating drivers and using the built-in troubleshooter is important after an update.

How do I know if my PC has Bluetooth hardware?

You can check in Device Manager under Bluetooth. If no Bluetooth section is visible, your PC might not have Bluetooth hardware installed.

Is it safe to download Bluetooth drivers from third-party websites?

It’s best to download drivers from your PC manufacturer’s official website or trusted sources to avoid malware or corrupted drivers.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and Bluetooth still doesn’t work, consider the following final options:

  • Check for hardware issues: Bluetooth adapters can fail. If possible, test with a USB Bluetooth dongle.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Bluetooth support page for official guidance.
  • Perform a Windows Reset: As a last resort, resetting Windows 10 can fix deep system issues, but back up your data first.

Conclusion

Bluetooth problems in Windows 10 Version 2004 can be frustrating, but most issues have simple fixes. Always start with basic checks like turning Bluetooth on and running the troubleshooter. Updating drivers and ensuring Bluetooth services run correctly are crucial steps.

If needed, reinstalling the Bluetooth device or updating Windows can resolve more stubborn problems. Advanced options like restarting the Bluetooth service or system restore offer additional help.

By following this guide step-by-step, you should be able to restore your Bluetooth functionality and enjoy wireless connectivity once again.

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