How to Fix Microphone Not Working On Windows 11
It’s a real bummer when the microphone doesn’t work on your Windows 11 PC. This might happen due to different reasons, including incompatible hardware, privacy settings, driver, failed Windows updates, or problems with audio jacks.
These days, many people use their PCs to take calls and attend virtual meetings; for that, a working mic is vital.
While it is annoying, you can solve it with a few simple methods. This article will guide you through different ways to fix the microphone not working in Windows 11.
Why Isn’t My Microphone Working?
Before diving into the solutions, let’s understand why your microphone might not be working on Windows 11:
- Physical Connection Issues: Sometimes, the simplest explanation is the correct one. Ensure that your microphone is correctly plugged into the appropriate port.
- Privacy Settings: Microphone access is controlled by privacy settings. If your privacy settings don’t allow microphone access to certain apps, it may appear your microphone is not working.
- Outdated Drivers: Outdated or incompatible microphone drivers can cause issues. Ensuring you have the latest drivers is crucial.
- Windows Updates: Sometimes, a Windows update can interfere with microphone functionality. Keeping your Windows 11 up to date can resolve such issues.
- Incompatible Pins: The external wired mics have TRS or TRRS pins; inserting them in incompatible jacks won’t work.
Fix: Microphone Not Working in Windows 11
Follow these methods one by one, and any of these solutions should help you fix the underlying issue with your microphone.
1. Check the Physical Connection
Different mics have different compatibility and other requirements, and they often need to be connected in a particular way to get them working. So, if your connection is faulty, the mic won’t work. Here is what you have to do:
- Inspect the Connection: Start with the basics. Ensure your microphone is securely plugged into the correct port on your computer. If you’re using an external microphone, check its connection to the PC.
- Try Another Port: If using a desktop PC, try a different microphone port on your motherboard. For laptops, ensure there are no issues with the built-in microphone hardware.
2. Enable the Microphone Using the Device Manager
Sometimes, your microphone gets disabled, and this is mainly the case if you are using an external mic. Here is what you have to do to enable it:
1. Press the “Windows + X” keys together and select Device Manager from the menu.
2. Expand the category labeled “Audio inputs and outputs.”
3. Right-click on your microphone device (it may be named differently) and select Enable, if available. You can also click the Enable icon. If it’s already enabled, you can try disabling and re-enabling it.
If you find more than one microphone driver, enable and disable all of them.
3. Select the Microphone from the Windows Taskbar Settings
5. Update Microphone Drivers
6. Windows Update
7. Run the Audio Troubleshooter
8. Check Microphone Compatibility
Verdict
FAQ: How to Fix Microphone Not Working on Windows 11
1. Check the Microphone Hardware
- Ensure the microphone is properly plugged into your computer's audio input port.
- Test the microphone with another device to verify it's functioning correctly.
- If the microphone is built-in, make sure it's not physically damaged or obstructed.
2. Check the Microphone Settings
- Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar and select "Open Sound settings".
- Click "Sound Control Panel" and then select the "Recording" tab.
- Ensure the correct microphone is selected as the default device.
- Check the microphone's properties and make sure the levels are not muted or set too low.
3. Update the Microphone Drivers
- Open the Start menu, search for "Device Manager", and open it.
- Expand the "Audio inputs and outputs" section.
- Right-click the microphone device and select "Update driver".
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest driver.
4. Disable and Re-enable the Microphone
- Open the Sound Control Panel and right-click the microphone device.
- Select "Disable" and then wait a few seconds.
- Right-click the microphone device again and select "Enable".
5. Check for Microphone Conflicts
- Open the Start menu, search for "Sound", and open the "Sound" app.
- Click the "Recording" tab and ensure no other applications are using the microphone.
- If another application is using the microphone, close that application and try again.
6. Perform a Clean Boot
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type "msconfig" and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, go to the "Services" tab and check the "Hide all Microsoft services" box.
- Click "Disable all" and then go to the "Startup" tab.
- Click "Open Task Manager" and disable any third-party startup items.
- Click "OK" and restart your computer.
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