The simplest method is to use a Bluetooth adapter for your computer.
-
Find a Bluetooth Adapter
-
Install the Bluetooth Adapter
-
Connect a Device
-
Use Bluetooth With Other Devices
Many gadgets, such as headphones and keyboards, use Bluetooth. Many computers already have it, but if yours doesn’t, you can get it with a Bluetooth dongle or adapter. Fortunately, getting started is simple.
Tip: Is Bluetooth already installed on your computer? Because the methods below require the purchase of a Bluetooth dongle, you should ask yourself this question before proceeding. Learn how to set up Bluetooth devices and see what to do when Bluetooth isn’t working in Windows 10. It’s possible that your computer already has Bluetooth installed, but that adding a device isn’t working.
Note: This article applies to machines running Windows 10, 8, or 7.
Find a Bluetooth Adapter
The simplest way to add Bluetooth functionality to a desktop or laptop is to purchase a Bluetooth adapter. You won’t have to open your computer or add a Bluetooth card or anything.
Bluetooth dongles use USB, thus they plug into an open USB port on the outside of your computer. They’re cheap, small, and easy to find on sites like Amazon, Newegg, Best Buy.
Note: In general, you’ll want to obtain the quickest Bluetooth transmitter your computer can handle. A USB 3.0 adaptor is required for most current PCs. However, if the USB ports on your PC have black plastic inserts, they’re most likely USB 2.0. They’re USB 3.0 if they’re blue or designated SS (SuperSpeed). This is important because USB 3.0 devices will not work as quickly in USB 2.0 ports as they will in USB 3.0 ports.
Install the Bluetooth Adapter to Your Computer
In most circumstances, you can just plug the Bluetooth adapter into your computer and Windows will automatically install the necessary driver. If it doesn’t work, use a driver updater tool or look up precise installation instructions on the manufacturer’s website.
Note: Each of the four Bluetooth adapters we tested was self-installing.
Connect a Device to the Bluetooth Adapter
It’s time to pair a device with your Bluetooth adapter now that it’s connected to your PC.
Navigate to Settings > Devices > Add Bluetooth or other device > Bluetooth in Windows 10. Users of Windows 8 and Windows 7 should navigate to Hardware and Sound > Devices and Printers > Add a device in the Control Panel.
It’s possible that you’ll need to input a code on both devices to finish the pairing process.
For step-by-step instructions, check how to set up a Bluetooth device, or look at these specialized instructions for connecting Bluetooth headphones, using Bluetooth speakers with your computer, or pairing a Bluetooth mouse.
Using Bluetooth With Other Devices
Bluetooth isn’t just for computers anymore. You can also get Bluetooth in your car and add it to a TV.