No audio on Windows is often caused by the wrong output device, a muted slider, a driver problem, or an audio service that stopped after an update. Start with the simple checks before reinstalling drivers.
This guide applies to Windows 10 and Windows 11 desktops and laptops using built-in speakers, headphones, HDMI audio, Bluetooth speakers, or external speakers.
Does This Affect You?
If volume appears normal but videos, calls, games, or system sounds are silent, follow these steps in order. Most no-sound cases are fixed by selecting the correct output device or refreshing the audio driver.
Check Mute, Volume, and Output Device
- Click the speaker icon near the clock.
- Make sure the volume is not at zero and the speaker icon is not muted. Click the icon once if it shows a mute symbol.
- Open the output device list from the speaker flyout or sound settings.
- Select the speakers, headphones, HDMI display, or Bluetooth device you are actually using.
- Open Sound settings and check the Output volume there as well.
- Play audio and watch the output meter. If the meter moves but you hear nothing, test another headset, speaker, cable, or port.
Run the Windows Audio Troubleshooter
- Open Settings > System > Sound.
- Use Output troubleshoot or search Start for Fix sound problems on Windows 10.
- Let Windows detect audio devices and follow the prompts.
- Accept suggested fixes such as switching output devices or restarting audio services.
- Test sound again after the troubleshooter finishes.
Update or Reinstall the Audio Driver
- Right-click Start and open Device Manager.
- Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
- Right-click the audio device, such as Realtek or High Definition Audio, and choose Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.
- If that does not help, right-click the device again, choose Uninstall device, and check the option to remove driver software if Windows offers it.
- Restart the PC so Windows reinstalls the driver.
More Audio Checks
Restart Windows Audio
Open Services, find Windows Audio, and make sure it is running. If it is stopped, start it and set Startup type to Automatic.
Try Another Format
Open the output device settings and try a different sample rate or bit depth, such as 16-bit/44100 Hz, if a monitor, DAC, or speaker system is silent with the current format.
Check Cables and HDMI Output
For external speakers or headphones, reseat the cable and try another port. For HDMI audio, make sure the TV or monitor is selected as the output device because Windows may switch back after a reboot or cable change.
Review Recent Updates
If sound stopped after Windows Update, check Update history and Optional updates for a newer audio driver or a problematic recent update.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Fix sound or audio problems in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Update drivers in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Set your default microphone or speaker