What makes a computer bluetooth enabled

Most Macs have Bluetooth capability of one kind or another so even if you bought your used or was gifted it, you can usually count on having Bluetooth. If you want to make sure, do this:. You can also look in System Preferences if you prefer. If you are using Linux, be aware that some Linux kernels are not compatible with all Bluetooth modules so will not recognize them.

While the query above works on most newer hardware and mainstream distros, if you compiled your own or are using something exotic, it may not return the correct result. I tested it on Ubuntu and Zorin and it worked fine.

Tethering refers to having devices share a network connection. If you pair your PC and your smartphone, you can tether your PC and use your mobile data to connect to the internet. Bluetooth does not only work on wireless headphones. You can also connect keyboards, mice, and other Bluetooth-enabled peripherals.

Users who like keeping their workspace tidy and free from cables often lean towards using wireless devices. The most convenient solution to not having Bluetooth is to buy either a dongle or an internal card. They work by plugging them directly in one of the available USB ports on your computer.

Once the dongle is recognized by your computer, turn on the Bluetooth device you want to connect. Your computer will recognize the device and allow you to establish a connection. Once paired, you should now be able to use the connected device. USB dongles are more convenient to use. They can be taken out when not in use or be used on another computer quickly.

We also suggest double checking the stats on your PC just to be sure. A little poking around with Google with reveal if you have the hardware in the first place and if you need any special driver, BIOS , or other updates. There are other ways to approach the problem, but the majority of them are quite impractical. Windows includes the basic Broadcom Bluetooth drivers required by the dongle and will install them automatically when it recognizes the new device. You can download the drivers from Kinivo the manufacturer of the dongle or from Broadcom the manufacturer of the actual Bluetooth radio inside the device.

In the Bluetooth File Transfer window, select whether you want to send or receive files and then follow the prompts. The Best Tech Newsletter Anywhere Join , subscribers and get a daily digest of news, geek trivia, and our feature articles. Account Password. How-To Geek is where you turn when you want experts to explain technology.