Windows 10: Persistent issues with Bluetooth adapter disappearing from Windows 10

Bluetooth has disappeared from my system again. I've performed a number of rescue attempts (described below) to no avail, and searched through other posts to these forums to find a different solution. In the past when this happens, it usually occurs when updates are being pushed to Win10 or Office, and the ultimate solution is the trusted bail-out of doing a Windows reset which costs time and because time is money.

(Side note: There are a lot of questions in the forums about this exact issue. All seem to lead to the same kind of "make sure your drivers are up-to-date" support response from support techs, and all seem to also now be locked.)


I am running Windows 10 build 1803 on a Dell XPS 15 laptop.

1. This is not a case where Bluetooth has been turned off. It is a case where Bluetooth suddenly doesn't exist, despite an adapter being present.
2. In Device Manager, viewed hidden devices, uninstalled the Qualcomm adapter. Downloaded most recent driver from Dell support and reinstalled drivers... twice. Still, Windows doesn't recognize Bluetooth.
3. Scanned for hardware changes. No change.
4. In Services, started, then restarted all Bluetooth services. No change.
5. Ran Bluetooth troubleshooter in Windows 10 which reports that my device does not have Bluetooth. But it does have Bluetooth; Windows is somehow unable to find it.
6. On a lark, I had my security software run a full system scan to identify possible malware issues. Nothing popped up.
7. I also manually requested a check for updates on the Windows Update screen. Nothing.
8. The Dell system hardware check also turned up no negative indications.

This seems to happen every few months and the only resolution has been to succumb to starting over with a fresh Windows 10 install which costs time and money. It's clearly not an isolated issue.

:)

 

Bluetooth in windows 10

My computer specs are as listed in the profile. I think all of you guys are correct. I don't have built-in Bluetooth in mobo.

I contacted skull candy headphones and thy have told me if I do not have built-in Bluetooth, I would need a dongle which supports at least a2dp. I do not know what the heck that means. I have a feeling I would need more than a cheap dongle.

Anyone suggest some a2dp adapters. I searched but don't know what a2dp is so couldn't make a decision

 

Bluetooth in windows 10

https://www.asus.com/Networking/USBBT211_Mini_Bluetooth_Dongle/

• Support A2DP for Wireless Stereo Music Playback

Edit: This is a dongle with old BT version I see now, but I'm sure you can find a Asus BT4.0 version.

Edit2:

@aasim1111 I have this one, it doesn't show that it supports A2DP in the specs but I think it'll work, otherwise send a mail to Asus and ask.
https://www.asus.com/Networking/USBBT400/specifications/

 

Windows Generic Bluetooth Adapter

Hi,



It seems that the issue occurs after the Windows Update, we suggest that you download and run the

Windows Update Troubleshooter.

If the issue persists, you can follow these steps to reinstall the Windows Generic Bluetooth Adapter.

• Go to Device Manager.
• Look for the Windows Generic Bluetooth Adapter.
• Right click, then select Uninstall.
• Click
  
  
  to scan for hardware changes.

Let us know the outcome.