Microsoft Charon Bluetooth Dongle (DFU) Driver

The Microsoft Charon Bluetooth Dongle (DFU) driver helps Windows recognize the dongle’s Device Firmware Upgrade interface, which is used during supported firmware maintenance or recovery procedures. Listed under Widcomm in the Other category, this driver is relevant if your adapter appears as an unknown DFU device or a compatible firmware utility cannot detect it. A DFU driver is not necessarily the driver needed for everyday Bluetooth pairing and audio connections.

Key Features

• DFU device recognition: Helps Windows identify the dongle’s firmware-update interface rather than leaving it as an unknown device.
• Firmware utility communication: Allows compatible maintenance software to communicate with the adapter when it is in DFU mode.
• Legacy Windows support: Listed operating systems include Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP; compatibility depends on the individual package.
• Targeted driver matching: Checking the device’s hardware ID against the package helps distinguish this DFU interface from standard Bluetooth adapters.

How to Install Microsoft Charon Bluetooth Dongle (DFU) Driver

1. Identify the device. Open Device Manager, locate the dongle or unknown device, and open Properties > Details > Hardware Ids. Record the ID so you can compare it with the driver package.
2. Check compatibility. Before choosing a Microsoft Charon Bluetooth Dongle (DFU) driver download for Windows, confirm that the package supports your hardware ID, Windows release, and 32-bit or 64-bit architecture. For Windows 10/11 systems, note that Windows 11 is not included in the supplied support list.
3. Download and extract. Choose a trusted source offering a free download, and review the package documentation. Select the latest version that explicitly supports your device—not simply the newest Bluetooth package.
4. Install the driver. Run the included installer, if provided. Otherwise, right-click the device in Device Manager, select Update driver, choose the option to browse your computer, and point Windows to the extracted driver folder. Do not bypass signature warnings.
5. Verify detection. Restart if prompted, then check Device Manager for errors. If firmware maintenance is required, follow the hardware manufacturer’s instructions and use only firmware intended for the exact adapter.

Keep the driver updated when a verified compatible release addresses a detection problem or supports a required maintenance tool. Before an update, retain a working driver copy or create a restore point where available. Installing a DFU driver alone does not update the dongle’s firmware or guarantee normal Bluetooth operation.