Bluetooth is a revolutionary form of technology that allows us to connect devices from a variety of brands for many different purposes. While it is used in the background of our everyday lives and often works as it should, it is still a form of technology and technology is not always perfect. Sometimes there may be a glitch in the system, or you are trying to pair two devices that have the wrong software versions.
It’s not that uncommon to have issues with Bluetooth, especially as new devices that can be used with the technology are released each day. Here is some helpful advice on how to connect Bluetooth on Windows 10 and other troubleshooting tips that you can use on the most common Bluetooth issues.
Error Message: Bluetooth Paired but Not Connected to Windows 10
The option to connect your Windows 10 PC to different Bluetooth devices allows you to get the most out of the Windows 10 experience. You can use a Bluetooth mouse of keyboard, share files with other devices such as phones, laptops, and tablets, play your favorite songs using Bluetooth speakers or headphones, use speech over PC, and even stay informed on your fitness progress each day if you use a fitness sensor such as a Fitbit.
To fix this problem, try out the following solutions.
Solution 1: Restart Your Bluetooth Service
1. On your PC keyboard, press the Windows key and R at the same time. This will bring up the Run dialog box.
2. In the Run box, type “services.msc” and then press Enter.
3. On the next screen, right-click on any Bluetooth related service such as Bluetooth Support Service for example. In the dialog box, click Restart.
4. Then, Right-Click on the service again, only this time click on Properties.
5. In the drop-down box next to Startup Type, choose Automatic. Then click OK.
6.Reboot your PC and attempt to connect the Bluetooth device once again.
Solution 2: Reinstall Bluetooth Drivers
If you are still having issues with your Windows 10 and Bluetooth devices being paired but not connected, there is something else that you can do. You can try to reinstall your Bluetooth driver to see if that clears up the situation.
1. On your PC’s keyboard, click on the Windows log key and X at the same time. This will bring up the quick-access menu.
2. Click on Device Manager.
3. Right-click on your Bluetooth device driver that is under the Bluetooth section of the window, and then click on Uninstall Device.
4. Download the correct driver from the Bluetooth’s device’s website and install it on your PC. Then Restart the PC, and try to connect the device once again.
How to Tell If Your PC Has Bluetooth
There is an abundance of Bluetooth related devices out there that can be used by a Windows PC. But how do you know if your PC can connect to Bluetooth products?
To find out if your PC has Bluetooth hardware already installed or not, you will need to bring up the Device Manager. This can be done by following these steps.
1. Click on the Start icon in the bottom left-hand corner of your PC.
2. Click on Device Manager.
3. Look over the list for an item named Bluetooth Radio. This can also be found under Network Adapters. If you do not have a Bluetooth Radio listed, then your PC doesn’t have Bluetooth and you will need to purchase an adapter.
To work correctly, Bluetooth technology requires both hardware and software. If your PC didn’t come already equipped with the hardware you need, you can always purchase a compatible adapter, also known as a Bluetooth USB dongle.
If your PC doesn’t have Bluetooth capabilities built-in, and you need to purchase a USB adapter, make sure you purchase one based on the Make and Model of your PC. Check out these specifications first before you make your purchase.
Bluetooth devices can also work with older versions of Windows. In Windows 7, check to see if Bluetooth hardware is listed in the Devices and Printers section. Then use the Add a Device toolbar button to browse for and connect your local Bluetooth items to your computer.
If you have Windows Vista, you can access Bluetooth by going into the control panel. It is located under the Hardware and Sound category under the Bluetooth Devices heading.
The good news is that Windows 10 PCs are usually compatible with all Bluetooth devices. However, it is common to run into some problems especially if you have an older model PC. With the addition of a Bluetooth adapter, you can easily make your Windows PC a Bluetooth-enabled device simply by plugging the adapter into your empty USB port. This will allow you to connect all types of devices from MP3 players to headphones and smartphones to your PC for easier access to data and files.