Intel(R) wireless bluetooth(R) driver won't uninstall and new drive won't install

[ed21]

My desktop is running a Intel(R) wireless bluetooth(R) driver version (22.30.0.4) from 22.01.2021. Which is super old in my opinion. I tried downloading the newest Intel® Wireless Bluetooth® version 24.30.1 Driver, but by going to device manager and checking the driver version after install, its still the 22.30.0.4 version from 22.01.2021. I've tried uninstalling the driver, restarted minimum of 15 times, installed the Intel® Driver & Support Assistant and downloaded the reccomended version for my system. But then I get the error message that I have a newer version installed. The problem is, its still the same old driver that doesnt want to dissapear. Is it something that my system just cant install? I've tried everything I can, but the driver version wont change. Does anyone have any tips to actually get the NEW driver for 2026?

[JeanetteC_Intel]

Hello ed21,

Thank you for contacting Intel Customer Support regarding the installation difficulties with your Intel® Wireless Bluetooth® driver.

I understand you're experiencing challenges updating from the older driver version 22.30.0.4 (2021) to the newer 24.30.1 driver, despite multiple attempts at uninstalling and reinstalling. This is a known issue that typically occurs when previous driver installations leave residual files that prevent proper updates.

Please proceed with Clean Driver Installation Process:

1) First, download and save both the latest Bluetooth and WiFi drivers from the Intel Download Center before beginning the uninstall process

2) Navigate to Windows Settings > Apps & Features

• Remove all Intel wireless software including "Intel® PROSet/Wireless Software" and "Intel® Wireless Bluetooth®"
• Select "discard settings" when prompted

3) Driver Removal from Device Manager:

• Open Device Manager (Right-click Start button)
• Under "Bluetooth," right-click "Intel(R) Wireless Bluetooth(R)" and select "Uninstall device"
• Critical step: Check the box "Delete the driver software for this device"
• Repeat this process for your Intel Wireless Adapter under "Network Adapters"

4) System Cleanup:

• Press Windows Key + R, type 
• cleanmgr.exe, then hit "enter" to execute command
  •  to clear temporary installation files
  • Restart your computer

5) Proper Installation:

• Install the Bluetooth driver FIRST
• Then install the WiFi driver
• Restart when prompted

Important Notes:

• The installation sequence matters - always install Bluetooth drivers before WiFi drivers
• Having only WiFi drivers installed can cause the Bluetooth module to become disabled or hidden
• This clean installation method removes conflicting files that standard uninstall processes often miss

This approach should resolve the driver version persistence issue you're experiencing. The clean installation process ensures all previous driver remnants are removed, allowing the new driver to install properly.

If you continue experiencing difficulties after following these steps, please help share the following details below:

1. Is the wireless adapter the original pre-installed component on your system, or has it been replaced/upgraded at any point?
2. Could you please provide screenshots of:
   1. MSInfo32 details showing system manufacturer/model, BIOS version, and OS version/build
   2. Device Manager > Bluetooth adapter > Properties showing the Status and Driver Version tabs

These details will help us identify any compatibility issues or conflicts preventing the driver update and determine the best path forward for resolving this issue.

Looking forward to your reply.

Best regards,

JeanetteC.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[JeanetteC_Intel]

Hello ed21,

Did you have a chance to review the previous post?

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Best regards,

JeanetteC.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[JeanetteC_Intel]

Hello ed21,

As I have not received a response over the past few days, I will now close this thread. If you require further assistance in the future, please submit a new inquiry, as this thread will no longer be actively monitored.

Sincerely,

JeanetteC.

Intel Customer Support Technician