Microphone Not Working in Windows 10

If your microphone has stopped working in Windows 10, it could be due to various reasons, ranging from hardware issues to software glitches. Let’s go through the most common causes and provide solutions to help restore your microphone’s functionality.

Check Basic Settings and Connections

Before diving into more complex solutions, ensure that the microphone is properly connected and powered on.

  • Verify that the microphone is securely plugged into your device, especially if you’re using an external one.
  • Try connecting the microphone to a different port or device to rule out hardware issues with the microphone itself.
  • Make sure the microphone isn’t muted physically (some headsets have a mute button).

Configure Microphone Settings in Windows 10

Sometimes, the problem is due to incorrect settings within the system. To check microphone settings, follow these steps:

  1. Go to Settings > System > Sound.
  2. In the Input section, select your microphone and make sure it is set as the default device.
  3. Click Troubleshoot to launch the diagnostic tool, which can automatically detect and resolve issues.

Check Microphone Permissions

Windows 10 allows you to control app access to the microphone. It’s possible that certain applications don’t have permission to use it:

  1. Open Settings > Privacy > Microphone.
  2. Ensure that microphone access is enabled.
  3. Check that microphone access is granted to the specific apps you need.

Update Microphone Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers can cause microphone issues. To update microphone drivers:

  1. Open Device Manager by right-clicking on Start and selecting it from the list.
  2. Locate the Audio inputs and outputs section and find your microphone.
  3. Right-click on the microphone and select Update driver.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver update.

Restart the Audio Service

Sometimes, restarting the Windows Audio service can resolve microphone issues:

  1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
  2. Find the Windows Audio service, right-click on it, and select Restart.
  3. Check if the microphone is now functioning properly.

Restore or Update Windows

If the microphone issue began after a system update or new application installation, consider restoring the system to an earlier state:

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
  2. Look for the Reset this PC option or use a previously created restore point if available.