There is virtually a limitless array of Bluetooth devices that you can hook up to your Dell laptop. Whether it's a wireless keyboard, headset, portable speaker, printer or mouse, Bluetooth technology will allow you to connect the device seamlessly with your Windows operating system. To start getting the most out of your laptop and Bluetooth device, you must pair the two. Read the steps listed below for an overview of how to connect Bluetooth to your Dell laptop.
- Set up Swift Pair, which is the newest way to pair your Bluetooth devices to your laptop, introduced in Windows 10. To do so, go to Settings, open the Devices app and select Bluetooth and other devices. Check the box that says Show notifications to connect using Swift pair.
- Turn on your Bluetooth device. The device will now go into pairing mode, which signals that it's ready to be paired.
- If this is the first time you used Swift Pair, Windows will ask you for your consent. Click the Yes button to continue pairing.
- Once your device is close enough to your laptop, usually up to 3 feet (1 meter), Swift Pair will notify you that it's found a device. Click Connect.
- Some devices will ask you to enter a pin for confirmation, which can be found in your device's manual. Once you enter the pin, the devices will now be connected.
You can also add a Bluetooth device a different way:
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- Go to Settings, then Devices, then open the Bluetooth and other devices page.
- Click Plus (+) next to Add Bluetooth or other devices.
- Choose Bluetooth as the kind of device you want to add.
- Turn on your Bluetooth device, so that it can be discoverable.
- Once you turn on your Bluetooth device, it should pop up on the list. Select your Bluetooth device and click Connect.
- Some devices will ask you to enter a pin for confirmation. Once you enter the pin, the devices will now be connected.
If the Bluetooth toggle icon doesn't appear on your screen, here's what to do:
- Press the Windows key. Type device manager in the Search box.
- Select Device manager in the list of programs.
- Click Plus (+) next to Bluetooth and look for any listing that has a down-arrow next to it.
- Right-click on the listing and select Enable device.
If you can't connect the laptop to the device, check that:
- The device is within 3 feet of the computer.
- You put the Bluetooth device in pairing mode.
- The Bluetooth device has fresh batteries.
If the problem persists, try pairing your computer with another Bluetooth device that has worked for you before. If it connects, contact the manufacturer of the Bluetooth device that won't pair. If your computer doesn't pair to any Bluetooth device, try the Bluetooth Troubleshooting and Usage Guide.
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