Windows 11 is the latest and greatest operating system from Microsoft, but it’s not without its quirks. One of the most frustrating issues users encounter is when their microphone stops working. This can be a nightmare for anyone who needs to use their computer for video conferencing, gaming, or even just recording voice memos. Fortunately, there are several solutions you can try if your microphone isn’t working on Windows 11.

Check Microphone Settings

The first thing to do when troubleshooting microphone problems on Windows 11 is to check your microphone settings. Ensure that your microphone is set as the default recording device. To do this, right-click on the speaker icon in the taskbar and select “Sounds.” Navigate to the “Recording” tab and ensure that your microphone is selected as the default device. If it’s not, right-click on it and select “Set as Default Device.”

Update Audio Drivers

An outdated or incompatible audio driver can cause issues with your microphone. Ensure that your audio drivers are up to date and compatible with your version of Windows 11. To check for driver updates, open the Device Manager by typing “Device Manager” in the search bar and selecting it from the results. Expand the “Audio Inputs and Outputs” section and right-click on your microphone. Select “Update Driver” and follow the prompts to install any available updates.

Check Microphone Connections

If your microphone is an external device, ensure that it’s plugged into the correct port. Try disconnecting and reconnecting the microphone’s cable and see if that resolves the issue. Also, verify that the microphone is properly connected to your computer and functioning correctly.

Check Microphone Privacy Settings

In Windows 11, some applications require permission to access your microphone before they can use it. Check that the app you’re trying to use your microphone with has access to it. To do this, go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone. Ensure that the toggle for “Allow apps to access your microphone” is turned on.

Run the Audio Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in audio troubleshooter that can detect and fix common issues with your microphone. Open Settings > System > Sound and select “Troubleshoot.” Follow the prompts to run the troubleshooter and see if it detects any problems.

In conclusion, when your microphone stops working on Windows 11, it can be annoying and frustrating. Fortunately, there are several fixes you can try to get your microphone working again. Check your microphone settings, update your audio drivers, ensure that your microphone is properly connected, check microphone privacy settings, and run the audio troubleshooter. By following these tips, you’ll be able to get your microphone up and running again in no time!