What should you check first if your new laptop does not show a Bluetooth adapter in Device Manager?

If your new laptop does not show a Bluetooth adapter in Device Manager, the first step should be to enable Bluetooth in the BIOS. The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the firmware that initializes hardware components during the startup process and provides runtime services for operating systems and programs. If Bluetooth is disabled in the BIOS, the operating system will not recognize the Bluetooth hardware, and it will not appear in Device Manager.

When Bluetooth is disabled at this level, it prevents any drivers from being loaded, hence no functionality can be accessed. By accessing the BIOS during system startup and enabling Bluetooth, you are ensuring that the operating system will detect the Bluetooth hardware, which can then lead to the installation of the appropriate drivers.

Updating drivers is important if Bluetooth is recognized but not functioning properly, while reinstalling the operating system is a more drastic measure that typically is not necessary for simply enabling a feature. Checking for hardware compatibility is relevant if you're dealing with older equipment or components but is not the first course of action when dealing with a new device.