Bluetooth Proxy installation stuck on "Preparing Installation"

ESPHome
1

Hello,

I’m completely new to ESP32 boards and to the whole ESPHome Topic.

I’ve read about the ability to extend the Bluetooth range of HA with the ESP32 board so bought a board and tried to make it work but I failed.

I went to the website ESPHome Bluetooth Proxy and connected the board with my computer (Windows 11). Selected “Generic ESP32” on the website and clicked “Connect”. There were a few dialogs and after clicking Install a box with “Installing - Preparing installation” came up and is still showing (after at least 2 hours).

I don’t think it is still doing something. What could be a problem that caused this?

2 Likes
2

I just wanted to let you know that I’ve found the issue and could install the BLE Proxy on my ESP32.

The Problem was that Windows has not installed the right driver for the board. I’ve looked around and came across this Drivers here: https://www.silabs.com/developers/usb-to-uart-bridge-vcp-drivers?tab=downloads. After Installing those drivers I was able to install the Proxies.

1 Like
3

Just adding my .02. I had the same issue, downloading the drivers didn’t fix it. My fix was to hold down the boot button on the ESP32 board, then push the EN button once, then release the boot button. I did all this as the screen said “Preparing Installation”

22 Likes
4

Thanks Brad, this worked for me as well

5

When all else fails press buttons! Worked for me too. Thanks

6

“hold down the boot button on the ESP32 board” fixed my issue as-well.

2 Likes
7

Just holding the boot button (not pressing anything else) worked for me too, thanks :slight_smile:

8

So i was able to get esphome installed, but i can’t seem to go to it in the url when i type in the ip address, however it says online in home assistant…

9

2 and a half years later and this advice is still helping - thanks Brad

1 Like
10

November 2025 checking in, Holdin down the Boot button worked! even got this handy error message on screen before I found this forum post

hold-boot-button-modal
hold-boot-button-modal1199×652 24.8 KB

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For me what worked is this:

  • Hold BOOT
  • Plug in USB
  • When it says Preapring Installation release BOOT
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Yep, both the right serial USB-UART bridge driver and figuring out how your particular ESP32 variant goes into programming mode on boot are critical. I really like the Atom-Lite ESP32 devices. Footprint smaller than a quarter and includes a sort of protective case. A little doublestick velcro behind a cabinet, and easy to place. My current use is for the BT_BLE_Adv integration, driving the Fan and lights on my screened in porch.