How To Update Bluetooth Drivers In Windows 11? Easy Guide

Updating Bluetooth drivers in Windows 11 is a simple yet essential process that ensures smooth wireless connectivity and better device compatibility. By using Device Manager, you can quickly search for and install the latest Bluetooth driver available for your system.

The process involves opening Device Manager, expanding the Bluetooth section, selecting your adapter, choosing Update driver, and allowing Windows to search automatically. After installation, restarting your computer completes the update process.

Regularly updating your drivers prevents connectivity issues, improves performance, and enhances overall system stability. 

By following the steps in this guide, you can keep your Bluetooth working efficiently without needing advanced technical skills.

How To Update Bluetooth Drivers In Windows 11? Easy Guide

To update Bluetooth drivers in Windows 11, open Device Manager, expand the Bluetooth section, right-click your Bluetooth adapter, select Update driver, and choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will scan for the latest available driver and install it. Restart your computer after the update to apply the changes.

Now, follow the steps below carefully.

Step 1: Open Device Manager from the Start Menu

The first step is to access Device Manager, where all hardware devices and drivers are listed.

Click on the Start menu button located at the bottom left corner of your screen. In the search bar, type Device Manager. Once it appears in the search results, click on it to open.

You can also press Windows + X on your keyboard and select Device Manager from the menu that appears. This shortcut provides quick access to important system tools.

When Device Manager opens, you will see a list of categories representing all hardware components connected to your computer.

Step 2: Locate the Bluetooth Section

Inside Device Manager, scroll through the list until you find the category labeled Bluetooth.

Click on the small arrow next to Bluetooth to expand the section. This will display your installed Bluetooth adapter. The adapter name may vary depending on your hardware manufacturer. Common examples include Intel Wireless Bluetooth, Realtek Bluetooth Adapter, or Qualcomm Bluetooth Adapter.

If you do not see the Bluetooth section, it could mean your Bluetooth is disabled, or the driver is missing. In that case, you may need to enable Bluetooth in settings or reinstall the driver.

Once you identify your Bluetooth adapter, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Open Driver Update Option

Right-click on your Bluetooth adapter name. A small menu will appear with several options.

From the menu, select Update driver. This opens a new window that provides two options for updating the driver.

The system will ask whether you want Windows to search automatically for drivers or browse your computer manually for driver software.

For most users, the automatic option is recommended.

Step 4: Choose Automatic Driver Search

Click on Search automatically for drivers.

Windows 11 will now begin scanning your system and checking online for the latest compatible driver version. This process may take a few minutes, depending on your internet speed.

If a newer version is found, Windows will automatically download and install it. You do not need to manually select anything during this process.

If Windows says the best drivers for your device are already installed, it means no newer driver is available through the Windows update database.

After installation completes, close the window.

Step 5: Restart Your Computer

After updating your Bluetooth driver, it is important to restart your system.

Click on the Start menu, select the Power option, and choose Restart.

Restarting ensures that the new driver version is fully loaded into the system and replaces any previous files.

Once your computer restarts, test your Bluetooth device by reconnecting it. Check whether previous issues, such as pairing failures or audio lag, have been resolved.

Update Bluetooth Driver via Windows Update

Sometimes, driver updates are bundled within system updates. You can check for updates through Windows settings.

Open the Start menu and select Settings. Click on Windows Update from the left panel. Then select Check for updates.

If a Bluetooth driver update is available, Windows will download and install it automatically.

Restart your computer after installing updates.

How to Check Your Current Bluetooth Driver Version

If you want to confirm whether your Bluetooth driver has been updated, you can verify the version number.

Open Device Manager again and expand the Bluetooth section. Right-click your Bluetooth adapter and select Properties.

Navigate to the Driver tab. Here, you will see details such as Driver Provider, Driver Date, and Driver Version.

Compare this information before and after updating to confirm changes.

Why Updating Bluetooth Drivers Is Important?

Updating drivers is not just about fixing issues. It also improves overall performance and security.

New driver versions often include bug fixes that resolve connectivity problems. They may also enhance compatibility with newer Bluetooth devices such as wireless earbuds, smartwatches, or gaming controllers.

Additionally, updated drivers help prevent system crashes and reduce the chances of Bluetooth service interruptions.

What Problems You May See After Updating Bluetooth Drivers?

While rare, sometimes updating drivers can lead to temporary issues.

Your Bluetooth device might fail to connect immediately after installation. In such cases, restarting the computer usually fixes the issue.

If problems continue, you can roll back to the previous driver version. Open Device Manager, right-click your Bluetooth adapter, select Properties, go to the Driver tab, and choose Roll Back Driver if the option is available.

FAQs

How do I know if my Bluetooth driver needs updating?

If you experience connection drops, devices not pairing, poor audio quality, or Bluetooth not turning on, your driver may need updating. You can also check the driver date in Device Manager to see if it is outdated.

Can Windows 11 update Bluetooth drivers automatically?

Yes. Windows 11 automatically checks for driver updates through Windows Update. However, manual checking through Device Manager ensures you are using the latest available version.

What if Bluetooth is not showing in Device Manager?

First, restart your computer. If it still does not appear, enable Show hidden devices from the View menu. If missing completely, you may need to reinstall the Bluetooth driver from your device manufacturer’s website.

Is it safe to update Bluetooth drivers?

Yes. Updating drivers through Device Manager or Windows Update is safe and recommended. Avoid unofficial third-party driver tools.

How often should I update Bluetooth drivers?

There is no fixed schedule. Update them when facing issues or when a new Windows update is released.