If Bluetooth has suddenly disappeared from your Windows 11 device and does not appear in Device Manager or Settings, follow these troubleshooting steps to restore it.

Step 1: Fully Power Off and Restart Your PC

Many users have reported that completely shutting down and unplugging the computer for a few minutes can restore Bluetooth:

1. Shut down your PC completely (do not restart).
2. Unplug the power cable (for desktops) or remove the battery (for laptops, if possible).
3. Wait for 10 minutes.
4. Reconnect the power and turn on your PC.
5. Check if Bluetooth has returned.

Step 2: Enable Bluetooth in Device Manager

If Bluetooth is missing, check Device Manager:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Look for Bluetooth under Network adapters or Other devices.
3. If Bluetooth is listed:
   • Right-click it and select Enable device.
   • If not found, click View → Show hidden devices.
4. If Bluetooth appears as an Unknown USB Device, try uninstalling it and restarting your PC.

Step 3: Restart Bluetooth Services

Ensure all Bluetooth services are running:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find the following services:
   • Bluetooth Support Service
   • Bluetooth Audio Gateway Service
   • BluetoothUserService_XXXXX
3. Right-click each service and select Properties.
4. Set Startup type to Automatic and click Apply.
5. Restart each service.

Step 4: Reinstall Bluetooth Drivers

Reinstalling Bluetooth drivers can fix missing or corrupt installations:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Bluetooth and right-click your Bluetooth adapter.
3. Select Uninstall device and check Delete the driver software for this device, then click Uninstall.
4. Restart your PC. Windows should automatically reinstall the driver.
5. If not, download and install the latest driver from your manufacturer’s website.

Step 5: Check for Windows Updates

Sometimes, missing Bluetooth functionality is due to outdated system files:

1. Go to Settings → Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.
3. Restart your computer and check if Bluetooth is restored.

Conclusion

If Bluetooth disappeared on Windows 11, fully shutting down the PC and unplugging it often resolves the issue. If not, follow the steps to check Device Manager, restart Bluetooth services, and reinstall drivers.

For more “Windows 11” solutions, please check our Windows 11.