Bluetooth Problems

Mikael Tonheim 20 Reputation points
2026-08-10T18:29:12.2833333+00:00

So my keyboard (which uses bluetooth to connect to my pc) suddenly stopped working, i checked the "Add device/Bluetooth" and it said "cannot connect", I then checked device management and bluetooth was just gone, - "Show hidden devices" and it popped up, all of the bluetooth logos being light blue/ghost blue, as in they are off?, Atleast not working, instead of being dark blue

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Internet and connectivity
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Answer accepted by question author
Ivan B 123.4K Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-08-10T19:02:54.63+00:00

Hi ,

Search for msinfo32.exe in the search bar, take a screenshot, and post it here so we can see the correct laptop model or desktop configuration.

Go to Device Manager, take a screenshot, and post it here to see if any devices are showing a failure.

Thanks

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  1. Mikael Tonheim 20 Reputation points
    2026-08-10T18:42:07.2833333+00:00

    I'm just confused, adapter?, there is no "adapter:

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  2. AI answer

    2026-08-10T18:29:39.7666667+00:00

    Since Bluetooth is missing in Device Manager unless Show hidden devices is enabled, the adapter or driver is likely not loading correctly. Try these steps in order:

    1. Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter first.
      • In Windows 11, open the Get Help app and run the Bluetooth troubleshooter.
      • If it does not fix the issue, continue with the steps below.
    2. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
      • Select the Network, Sound, or Battery icons on the right side of the taskbar.
      • Look for the Bluetooth quick setting and turn it on.
      • Or go to Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices and confirm Bluetooth is on.
    3. Remove and re-add the Bluetooth keyboard.
      • Go to Start > Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
      • Select the keyboard under the device list and choose Remove device.
      • Select Add Bluetooth or other device > Bluetooth, then pair the keyboard again.
      • Before pairing, make sure the keyboard is charged or has fresh batteries and is in pairing mode.
    4. Update the Bluetooth driver.
      • Open Device Manager.
      • Expand Bluetooth.
      • Right-click the Bluetooth adapter name and select Update driver > Search automatically for updated driver software.
      • Restart the PC if prompted.
    5. If the adapter is still only shown as a hidden/ghosted device, uninstall and let Windows reinstall it.
      • In Device Manager, select Bluetooth.
      • Right-click the Bluetooth adapter name and select Uninstall device > Uninstall.
      • Select Start > Power > Shut down.
      • Wait a few seconds, then turn the PC back on.
      • Windows should try to reinstall the driver automatically.
      • If it does not, open Device Manager and select Action > Scan for hardware changes.
    6. Check for Windows updates.
      • Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
      • Select Check for updates and install any available updates.
    7. If Windows still does not restore Bluetooth, install the latest Bluetooth driver from the PC manufacturer.
      • Microsoft notes that the latest adapter driver may need to come from the PC or hardware manufacturer.

    The ghosted Bluetooth entries usually indicate Windows can see previously installed Bluetooth devices or the adapter, but the adapter is not currently active. If uninstalling and reinstalling the adapter does not bring Bluetooth back, the next step is the manufacturer driver.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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