It’s super easy to turn on Bluetooth on Windows 11, and there are several different ways to do it. Whether you are new to Windows 11 or are an advanced PC user, you should be able to get the job done in seconds.
Hi, my name is Megan. I’ve been using Windows PCs for 15 years and recently upgraded my Lenovo desktop to Windows 11. I’m just a general user like you, and I know that feeling when you don’t know how to do something in a new operating system. I’m here to help 🙂
In this article, I’m going to show you four simple ways to turn on Bluetooth on Windows 11 so you can start connecting your favorite headphone, speaker, mouse, or other peripherals. A few troubleshooting tips are also included in case you run into any issues.
Keep reading to learn how!
Contents
Where is the Bluetooth Icon on Windows 11?
The quick way to check the Bluetooth icon on your Windows 11 is by clicking the set of indicator icons at the bottom right corner of taskbar.
Then click on the Settings gear icon and you should see the Bluetooth icon located at the top area.
How to Turn on Bluetooth on Windows 11
Like I said, there are four different ways to do it: via Quick Settings, Windows Settings, Device Manager, or Control Panel. The first two methods (Method 1 and Method 2) are the fastest. And if you are a bit geeky, try Method 3 or Method 4.
Method 1: Via Quick Settings
Step 1: Click the set of indicator icons at the bottom right corner of taskbar.
Step 2: Click the Bluetooth icon on the top to turn it on. Blue background means on, and white background means off.
Method 2: Via Windows Settings
Step 1: Click the Windows icon in the middle of taskbar.
Step 2: Choose the Settings app.
Step 3: Under Bluetooth & devices tab, toggle the Bluetooth button to On.
Method 3: Via Device Manager
Step 1: Use “Windows + X” keyboard shortcut. Or click the Search icon on taskbar and type “Device Manager” and hit Enter to run the app.
Step 2: Under Bluetooth, locate the the device that you want to enable. Right click and select Enable device.
Method 4: Via Control Panel
Step 1: Click the Windows icon on the taskbar.
Step 2: Type the command “ncpa.cpl” in the search bar and hit Enter key or click the Open button.
Step 3: Right-click the Bluetooth Network Connection icon.
Step 4: Choose Enable to turn on Bluetooth.
How to Turn on Bluetooth on Windows 11 If There is No BlueTooth Icon?
If you find the Bluetooth icon is not available in Quick Settings, follow the 3-step guide below to activate it on Windows 11.
Step 1: Launch Quick Settings and click the pencil icon.
Step 2: Click on Add, and select Bluetooth in the list.
Step 3: You can see the fade icon of Bluetooth is there in the menu now, click Done.
By the way, here you can also click and drag the icon to anywhere you want. It will be on the place after you release your mouse.
FAQs
Here are a few common Bluetooth issues or questions related to the topic, I’ll provide the answers briefly.
Why is Bluetooth not showing in Device Manager?
It’s possible that the Bluetooth option is hidden by Windows 11. Click on View from the Device Manager menu and select show hidden devices to see if it’s showing.
Why can’t I turn on Bluetooth on Windows 11?
It’s likely that Bluetooth is disabled on Windows 11. Follow the steps in Method 3 above to enable it. If this doesn’t work, update or reinstall your Bluetooth driver. If you still facing this problem, run Bluetooth Troubleshooter (here’s how) and reboot your computer.
What’s the shortcut to turn on Bluetooth on Windows 11?
There is no direct shortcut to turn on Bluetooth. But you can press Windows + A to open Quick Settings, then go back to Method 1 to turn on your Bluetooth. Or you can enter Windows Settings by pressing Windows + I and go back to Method 2.
Final Words
Now that you’ve learned four different ways to turn on Bluetooth on Windows 11, I’d like to know which method works for you. Did you face any other problems? Either way, leave a comment below.
