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The Standard Serial over Bluetooth link (COM36) driver enables Windows applications to communicate with compatible Bluetooth devices through a virtual serial port. Provided through Microsoft’s Windows Bluetooth support, it is useful for connecting serial-enabled equipment such as scanners, GPS receivers, and diagnostic tools without a physical serial cable. COM36 identifies the assigned port on your computer, not a separate Bluetooth adapter model.
Key Features
- Virtual serial communication: Allows software that uses COM ports to exchange data with Bluetooth devices supporting the Serial Port Profile (SPP).
- Windows integration: Works with the Windows Bluetooth stack and a correctly installed Bluetooth adapter to create a usable serial connection.
- Application compatibility: Lets you select COM36 in compatible software when that port is assigned to your paired device.
- Connection management: Supports incoming or outgoing serial connections where available, depending on the Bluetooth device and Windows configuration.
How to Install Standard Serial over Bluetooth link (COM36) Driver
- Check your Windows version. Listed supported systems include Windows 10, 8.1, 7, Vista, and XP. Before choosing a Standard Serial over Bluetooth link (COM36) driver download for Windows, confirm compatibility with your operating system and Bluetooth adapter. For Windows 10/11 systems, do not assume a package listed for Windows 10 also supports Windows 11.
- Check the Bluetooth adapter. Open Device Manager and confirm that your adapter is enabled and working. If it has a warning icon, install the appropriate adapter driver from the computer or adapter manufacturer first.
- Obtain the appropriate driver. Microsoft’s virtual serial-port support is generally supplied by Windows rather than a standalone COM36 installer. Use Windows Update or an official manufacturer source for any required package; a free download should not require a paid driver-updater utility.
- Pair the Bluetooth device. Enable its serial service if necessary, then pair it through Windows Bluetooth settings. Check the Bluetooth COM Ports options and Device Manager to see which port Windows assigns.
- Configure and test your application. Select COM36 only if it is the assigned port, apply any communication settings required by the device, and test the connection. Restart Windows if prompted during installation.
Keep your Bluetooth adapter software and Windows components updated to maintain reliable connections. Check official sources for the latest version compatible with your system, and update when troubleshooting connection problems or addressing a documented fix. Older Windows releases may no longer receive driver or security updates.
Common Issues and Fixes
- COM36 missing or device not detected: Confirm Bluetooth is on and the serial device is paired and connected. In Device Manager, enable Show hidden devices and check Ports (COM & LPT). If absent, remove the pairing and re-pair; Windows should recreate the Standard Serial over Bluetooth link.
- Install fails or rolls back: Uninstall the existing Bluetooth serial device and driver, reboot, then re-pair and let Windows install the Microsoft in-box driver. Avoid forcing an older or vendor-specific INF for this generic link.
- App cannot open COM36 or reports port busy/conflict: Close other apps using the port, then in Device Manager open the Bluetooth link’s Properties > Port Settings > Advanced and choose a free COM number. Reconnect the device and update the app’s COM setting.
Driver Details
| Device | Standard Serial over Bluetooth link (COM36) |
|---|---|
| Vendor | Microsoft |
| Category | Other |
| Supported OS | Windows 10, 8.1, 7, Vista, XP |
| Published | October 30, 2026 |
| Updated | October 30, 2026 |