No sound from speakers

No sound from speakers

Quick checks

1. Check mute and volume. Press the volume-up key (often an F-key with a speaker icon) and check the speaker icon on the taskbar isn't crossed out.
2. Check where the sound is going. Select the speaker icon on the taskbar, then the arrow next to the volume slider, and choose Speakers. Audio often goes to a monitor, dock, headphones or a Bluetooth device instead.
3. Unplug headphones, HDMI cables and docks, then test again.
4. Test with something simple, such as a YouTube video, to rule out one app.

Check the settings

• App volume: open Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer and make sure the app you're using isn't turned down or muted.
• Run the troubleshooter: Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Audio > Run.
• Turn off audio enhancements: Settings > System > Sound, select your speakers, and set Audio enhancements to Off. This also fixes crackling or distorted sound.

Restart the audio service

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc and press Enter.
2. Find Windows Audio, right-click it and select Restart.

Reinstall the audio driver

1. Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
3. Right-click the audio device (usually Realtek Audio or Intel Smart Sound) and select Uninstall device.
4. Restart. Windows reinstalls the driver.
5. If that doesn't work, install the latest audio driver from your maker's driver tool (article 66).