How To Fix A Microphone On Windows 11?

To fix a microphone issue on Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Ensure Device Access

   • Open Start > Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.
   • Turn on "Microphone access" for apps of your choice.

2. Check App Permissions

   • If you're experiencing issues with a specific app, ensure that the app has microphone access. In Settings, navigate to Privacy & security > Microphone > Choose which apps can access your microphone and grant permission to the app in question.

3. Verify Device Functionality

   • Check to make sure the microphone is physically working by testing it with another device or using it in a different app.

4. Use Device Manager and Troubleshooting

   • Open Start > type "Device Manager" and open it.
   • Locate and expand the audio inputs and outputs section.
   • Right-click the microphone device and select "Properties".
   • Go to the "Driver" tab, and if you can, update the driver by selecting "Search automatically for drivers".
   • Use the "Troubleshoot" button in the same properties window to run Windows' built-in troubleshooter.

5. Set as Default Device

   • Open Start > Settings > System > Sound.
   • In the "Input" section, click "Choose your input device" and select your microphone.
   • Make sure it is set as the default recording device, then click "Device properties".
   • On the "Levels" tab, adjust microphone volume and ensure the blue bar moves in response to your voice.

6. Check Volume Mixer

   • Right-click the Volume icon in the taskbar and select "Sounds".
   • In the "Recording" tab, ensure the volume for your microphone is not muted and is appropriately adjusted.
   • Also, make sure the relevant application or sound source is not muted in the "Playback" tab if needed.

7. Select Input in Applications

   • For applications that do not automatically select the microphone, like Skype, go to their settings and select your microphone as the default input device.

8. Basic Troubleshooting

   • Ensure the microphone cable is securely connected and not damaged.
   • Temporarily disable any enhancements or boosts set in microphone properties.
   • Run a System File Check (SFC) scan via the Command Prompt (cmd.exe) by typing sfc /scannow and pressing Enter.

If the issue persists after trying these steps, you may consider updating your sound driver, using the manufacturer's drivers, or try rolling back to a previous Windows version that did not have this microphone problem, though back up important data before trying this option.