Step 1: Check Basic Audio Settings

Before diving into advanced troubleshooting, ensure the basics are set up correctly:

1. Check Volume Levels:

• Click on the speaker icon in the taskbar and ensure the volume is turned up.

• Use your keyboard’s volume controls (if available).

2. Ensure the Right Output Device is Selected:

• Click the speaker icon in the taskbar.

• Click the caret (^) next to the volume slider.

• Select the correct output device (e.g., speakers, headphones, or external audio devices).

3. Verify Physical Connections:

• Ensure speakers/headphones are properly plugged in.

• If using Bluetooth, check that the device is connected (Settings → Bluetooth & Devices → Devices).

• Try unplugging and replugging audio devices.

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Step 2: Run the Windows Audio Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings (Win + I).

2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.

3. Find Playing Audio and click Run.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and fix issues automatically.

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Step 3: Restart Audio Services

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

2. Scroll down to locate the following services:

• Windows Audio

• Windows Audio Endpoint Builder

• Remote Procedure Call (RPC)

3. Right-click each service and select Restart.

4. If any are not running, right-click and choose Start.

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Step 4: Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers

Update Audio Drivers

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.

2. Expand Sound, video, and game controllers.

3. Right-click your audio device (e.g., Realtek, Intel, or NVIDIA audio) and select Update driver.

4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

Reinstall Audio Drivers

1. In Device Manager, right-click your audio device and select Uninstall device.

2. Restart your PC – Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.

Alternatively, you can download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

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Step 5: Check Sound Enhancements and Format Settings

1. Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar and select Sound settings.

2. Scroll down and click More sound settings.

3. Under the Playback tab, select your audio device and click Properties.

4. In the Enhancements tab, check Disable all enhancements.

5. In the Advanced tab, try different sample rates (e.g., 24-bit, 44100 Hz).

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Step 6: Check for Windows Updates

1. Open Settings (Win + I).

2. Go to Windows Update and click Check for updates.

3. Install any available updates and restart your PC.

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Step 7: Perform a System Restore (if necessary)

If the issue started recently, try restoring Windows to a previous working state:

1. Press Win + R, type rstrui, and press Enter.

2. Follow the prompts to restore your system to an earlier restore point.

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Conclusion

If none of the steps above resolve the issue, you may have a hardware problem. Try testing with different headphones/speakers or consider seeking professional support.

For further assistance, visit Microsoft Support.