To fix audio on Windows 10, start with the basics: check the volume and mute, pick the right output device from the speaker icon, and run the Playing Audio troubleshooter (Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters). If there’s still no sound, restart the Windows Audio service, update or roll back the audio driver in Device Manager, and turn off audio enhancements. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027.
Quick Answer
Check volume and output device > run Playing Audio troubleshooter > restart Windows Audio service > update or reinstall the audio driver.
Steps to Fix Audio
- Click the speaker icon, raise the volume and choose the correct output device.
- Check cables, Bluetooth pairing, and any mute button on the headset or keyboard.
- Run the Playing Audio troubleshooter.
- Press Windows + R, type services.msc, right-click Windows Audio and choose Restart.
- In Device Manager > Sound, video and game controllers, update the driver, roll it back, or uninstall it and restart so Windows reinstalls it.
- In the device’s Properties, turn off enhancements and try a different default format (sample rate).
Symptoms and Fixes
| Symptom | Try |
|---|---|
| No sound at all | Output device, mute, Windows Audio service |
| Sound from wrong device | Choose output from the speaker icon |
| Crackling or distortion | Disable enhancements, change sample rate, update driver |
| Stopped after an update | Roll back the driver |
| Only in one app | Check that app’s audio settings and the volume mixer |
Troubleshooting
- Driver steps: See updating audio drivers and restarting the audio driver.
- HDMI or monitor audio: See switching HDMI on Windows 10.
- Headphone balance: See balancing headphone sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did sound stop after an update?
A new driver may not suit your hardware. Roll back, or install the driver from your PC maker.
Does restarting help?
Often. A full restart resets the audio service and drivers.
Could it be hardware?
If headphones work but speakers don’t (or the reverse), test the device on another computer.
Summary
- Check volume and output device.
- Run the troubleshooter.
- Restart Windows Audio.
- Update, roll back or reinstall the driver.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.