Why can't I add a bluetooth device on my laptop?

[Kelly_1]

I added a bluetooth device to my laptop yesterday and now it's not working.  I uninstalled the device and now it won't let me add any devices?  Any suggestions?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Kelly_1,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your laptop isn’t allowing you to add Bluetooth devices after uninstalling one. Let’s go through a few steps to restore Bluetooth functionality and get your devices connected again.

a. Check if Bluetooth is Turned On

Press Windows + A to open the Quick Settings panel.

Make sure the Bluetooth icon is highlighted (turned on).

If the icon isn’t visible, go to Settings → Bluetooth & Devices and toggle Bluetooth on.

b. Restart Bluetooth Services

Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

In the list, find and ensure these services are Running and set to Automatic:

Bluetooth Support Service

Bluetooth Audio Gateway Service (if available)

Bluetooth User Support Service

Right-click each → Properties → Startup type → Automatic, then click Start (if stopped).

c. Run Bluetooth Troubleshooter

Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.

Find Bluetooth → click Run.

Follow the on-screen steps to detect and fix any pairing or driver issues.

d. Reinstall Bluetooth Drivers

Press Windows + X → Device Manager.

Expand Bluetooth.

Right-click your Bluetooth adapter (e.g., “Intel Wireless Bluetooth”) → Uninstall device.

Restart your laptop — Windows will automatically reinstall the default driver.

If it doesn’t, visit your laptop manufacturer’s Support page (e.g., HP, ASUS) → search your model → download and install the latest Bluetooth driver.

e. Check Airplane Mode & Power Settings

Ensure Airplane Mode is off.

Go to Settings → Power & Battery → Power mode and choose Balanced or Best performance (some power modes disable Bluetooth).

f. Clear Paired Devices Cache (Optional)

Open Device Manager → View → Show hidden devices.

Expand Bluetooth and Network adapters.

Right-click and uninstall any grayed-out Bluetooth devices.

Restart your laptop and try pairing again.

g. Try Adding Device Again

Go to Settings → Bluetooth & Devices → Add device → Bluetooth.

Make sure your Bluetooth device is in pairing mode and within 1–2 meters.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,