How to Fix the “No Output Audio Device Installed” Error in Windows

The “No output audio device installed” error is a common issue on Windows computers when the system cannot detect or properly configure an audio device. This guide will walk you through the primary causes of this problem and offer effective solutions to resolve it.

Main Causes of the Error

First, it's essential to understand what might be causing this issue:

  • Missing or corrupt drivers: Incorrect installation or damaged driver files can prevent Windows from recognizing the device.
  • System updates: Some Windows updates might conflict with audio drivers.
  • Disabled device in BIOS or Windows settings: The audio device might have been accidentally disabled.
  • Hardware connection issues: A poor connection or device malfunction could also trigger the error.

How to Fix the “No Output Audio Device Installed” Error

1. Check the Audio Device Connection

If you are using external headphones or speakers, ensure they are properly connected to the computer. Check the ports and connection cables. Sometimes, simply reconnecting the device or using a different port can restore sound.

2. Update or Reinstall the Drivers

Audio drivers can become outdated or corrupted. Here’s how to update or reinstall them:

  • Open the Device Manager (press Win + X and select it from the menu).
  • Find the “Sound, video and game controllers” section and select your audio device.
  • Right-click the device and choose “Update driver” or “Uninstall device” (after uninstalling, restart your computer to let Windows automatically reinstall the driver).

3. Check Windows Sound Settings

Sometimes, the issue may be due to incorrect sound settings. To verify these:

  • Right-click the sound icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen and select “Open Sound settings.”
  • Ensure the correct device is selected as the sound output.
  • If the device isn’t showing, click on “Manage sound devices” and enable it.

4. Use Windows Troubleshooter

Windows has built-in troubleshooting tools that can help diagnose and resolve audio device issues:

  • Press Win + I to open Settings and select “Update & Security.”
  • Go to “Troubleshoot” and select “Additional troubleshooters.”
  • Find “Playing Audio” and run the troubleshooter, following its instructions.

5. Check BIOS Settings

Sometimes, the issue lies in the BIOS settings, where the audio device may be disabled:

  • Restart your computer and enter the BIOS (typically by pressing Del, F2, or F10 when the system boots).
  • Look for the section related to devices or audio and ensure the audio card is enabled.

6. Update Windows

Some Windows updates include fixes for audio drivers and settings. It’s a good idea to check for the latest updates:

  • Open Settings (Win + I), go to “Update & Security,” and click “Check for updates.”