How to Fix Bluetooth Devices That Will Not Connect

When Bluetooth Devices Will Not Connect

Bluetooth issues are frustrating but usually fixable. Here is how to get your devices connected.

Check the Basics

Make Sure Bluetooth Is On

• Click the network icon in the taskbar (bottom right)
• Check that Bluetooth is highlighted or on
• Or open Settings > Bluetooth & devices and check the toggle

Check Your Device

• Make sure the device is charged
• Make sure the device is in pairing mode (check device instructions)
• Some devices have a dedicated pairing button
• Look for a flashing light indicating pairing mode

Check Range

Bluetooth range is typically 10 metres:

• Move the device closer to your computer
• Remove obstacles between them
• Other wireless devices can cause interference

Pairing a Bluetooth Device

Standard Pairing Process

• Put your device in pairing mode
• Open Settings (Windows key + I)
• Go to Bluetooth & devices
• Click Add device
• Select Bluetooth
• Wait for your device to appear
• Click on it to connect
• Follow any additional prompts

If Device Does Not Appear

• Make sure the device is in pairing mode (light flashing)
• Try turning the device off and on
• Try turning Bluetooth off and on in Windows
• Move closer to the computer

Fixing Connection Problems

Remove and Re-pair the Device

• Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices
• Find the device
• Click the three dots and select Remove device
• Confirm removal
• Put the device back in pairing mode
• Add it again as a new device

Restart Bluetooth

• Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices
• Turn Bluetooth off
• Wait 10 seconds
• Turn Bluetooth on
• Try connecting again

Restart the Bluetooth Service

• Press Windows key + R
• Type services.msc and press Enter
• Find Bluetooth Support Service
• Right-click and select Restart
• Try connecting again

Driver Solutions

Update Bluetooth Drivers

• Right-click the Start button
• Click Device Manager
• Expand Bluetooth
• Right-click your Bluetooth adapter
• Click Update driver
• Click Search automatically for drivers

Reinstall Bluetooth Drivers

If updating did not work:

• In Device Manager, right-click your Bluetooth adapter
• Click Uninstall device
• Check Delete the driver software if prompted
• Restart your computer
• Windows will reinstall the driver

Common Bluetooth Devices

Headphones and Speakers

• Make sure they are charged
• Disconnect from other devices (phones, tablets)
• Some headphones only connect to one device at a time
• Check audio output is set to the Bluetooth device in Sound settings

Mice and Keyboards

• Check batteries
• Some have a USB receiver as well as Bluetooth—use the receiver for more reliable connection
• Check if any switches are set to the correct mode

Phones

• Turn on Bluetooth on your phone
• Make the phone discoverable
• For file transfer, you may need specific apps

Troubleshooter

• Open Settings (Windows key + I)
• Go to System > Troubleshoot
• Click Other troubleshooters
• Find Bluetooth and click Run
• Follow the prompts

When to Contact IT

Contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au if:

• Your computer does not have Bluetooth options
• Bluetooth worked before but stopped completely
• Multiple devices fail to connect
• You need Bluetooth for work-critical functions
• These fixes did not resolve the problem

Need Help?

For Bluetooth issues, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.