How to Set Up a Bluetooth Device on a PC

This article explains how to connect Bluetooth devices to computers with or without built-in Bluetooth capabilities. Instructions apply to Windows 10, 8.1, and 7.

How to Connect Wireless Input Devices

Most modern laptops and computers come with built-in Bluetooth capabilities. Because of this, you can use all sorts of wireless speakers, headphones, fitness trackers, keyboards, trackpads, and mice with your PC. The pairing process differs depending on what you connect to your PC.

To connect a wireless keyboard, mouse, or similar device to your PC, follow these steps:

1. Turn on the keyboard, mouse, or similar device to make it discoverable.

2. On the PC, select Start.

3. Select Settings.

4. Choose Devices.

5. Select Bluetooth & other devices in the left pane.

6. Turn on Bluetooth, if it isn't toggled on.

7. Select Add Bluetooth or other device.

8. In the Add a device window, select Bluetooth.

9. Select the device you want to pair in the list of Bluetooth devices Windows finds. Follow any on-screen steps to complete the connection.

How to Connect a Headset, Speaker, or Other Audio Device

The way you make audio devices discoverable varies. Check the documentation that came with the device or at the manufacturer's website for specific instructions.

1. Turn on the Bluetooth headset, speaker, or other audio device and make it discoverable by following the manufacturer's instructions.

2. On the PC's taskbar, select Action Center > Connect to turn on Bluetooth on the PC if it isn't on.

3. Select the device's name from the next screen and follow any additional instructions that appear to connect the device to the PC.

After the device is paired with the PC, it usually reconnects automatically when the two devices are in the range of each other, assuming Bluetooth is turned on.

How to Connect Devices to PCs Without Built-In Bluetooth Capabilities

Laptops haven't always come Bluetooth-ready. Computers without built-in Bluetooth capabilities interact with Bluetooth wireless devices with the help of a small receiver that plugs into a USB port on the computer.

1. Insert the Bluetooth receiver into a USB port. 

2. Select the Bluetooth devices icon in the lower-right corner of the taskbar. If the icon doesn't appear automatically, select the upward-pointing arrow to reveal the Bluetooth symbol.

3. Select Add a Bluetooth Device. The computer searches for discoverable devices.

4. Select the Connect or Pair button on the Bluetooth device (or follow the manufacturer's instructions to make it discoverable). The wireless device often has an indicator light that flashes when it is ready to be paired to the PC.

5. Select the name of the Bluetooth device in the devices found in Windows. Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the pairing of the device to the computer.