Tutorial 101: Troubleshoot Audio Issues on Windows 10

Tutorial 101: Troubleshoot Audio Issues on Windows 10

/ Shayne Sherman

You are on your computer on a typical day and decide to play a video or listen to music, but nothing is coming out of your speakers. You try adjusting the volume, but still, nothing happens.

Now you are confused, is your computer broken? Did you change something in the settings?

Windows has a built-in application to help you troubleshoot your computer if you have problems with your audio.

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This article will show you how to use an Audio Troubleshooter on windows 10 to fix your computer’s audio.

Common Reasons To Use Windows Audio Troubleshooter

Sound problems on your computer can be a nuisance, especially when you need audio for watching videos, playing games, or participating in video conferences. Thankfully, the Windows Audio Troubleshooter is there to help you diagnose and fix these issues. Here are some common reasons to use the Windows Audio Troubleshooter:

  1. No Sound Output: The most common audio issue that users face is the complete absence of sound from their device. This problem can occur due to various reasons, such as incorrect settings, outdated drivers, or hardware malfunction. Using the audio troubleshooter can help identify and correct these issues in no time.
  2. Audio Distortion or Stuttering: If you are experiencing audio that is distorted, stuttering, or cutting in and out, using the audio troubleshooter is a good way to diagnose and potentially fix those issues. This will ensure an uninterrupted and smooth audio experience.
  3. Difficulty Connecting External Devices: If you have recently connected an external audio device, such as speakers or headphones, and are experiencing issues with sound output, the audio troubleshooter can help identify and resolve any conflicts or driver-related problems.
  4. Mismatched Audio Levels: If the audio level balance between different sources/application is off or if one application produces sound at a much higher or lower volume compared to others, you can use the Windows Audio Troubleshooter to resolve this problem.
  5. Incorrect Audio Output Device: There might be instances where your computer mistakenly selects the wrong audio output device, resulting in a lack of sound from your intended device. The audio troubleshooter can automatically detect such issues and help you switch to the correct output device.

In conclusion, whether you’re experiencing a common or rare audio issue on your Windows 10 computer, the Windows Audio Troubleshooter is a powerful tool to diagnose and resolve those problems. By adding this section to your content, your readers will understand the significance of using Windows Audio Troubleshooter and how it can help them resolve various audio-related issues.

How to Run Windows Audio Troubleshooter

Step 1: Press Windows Key + S and search for “find and fix audio playback problems.”

Step 2: Open the Audio Troubleshooter.

Audio troubleshooter

Step 3: Click on “Next.”

Next button

Step 4: Wait for the Troubleshooter to finish scanning your computer.

Step 5:  Select which device you want to troubleshoot, then click next.

(In our case, we select the laptop’s built-in speaker)

Select device that needs to troubleshoot

Step 6: Wait for the Troubleshooter to finish analyzing your audio device.

Step 7: The audio Troubleshooter will ask you to turn off sound effects and enhancements.

Step 8: Click on Open Enhancements.

Open Enhancements

Step 9: Speaker Properties will open; click on the enhancements tab.

Step 10: Make sure all boxes are unmarked and click OK to save changes.

Enhancements tab all unchecked

Step 11: Try playing audio on your computer and see if the problem is fixed.

If there is still no sound from your laptop, proceed to step 12.

Step 12: On Audio Troubleshooter, click on Next.

Step 13: Wait for the Troubleshooter to finish scanning your computer.

Step 14: Click on Play test sounds.

Play test sounds

Step 15: Check if you will hear any sound from your computer.

Step 16: Select from one of the options on the screen based on what you hear from the sound test.

NOTE:

If you hear a sound on your computer and it’s clear, select: GOOD.

If you hear distorted or unclear audio, select: BAD, this will prompt your audio drivers to reinstall.

If you did not hear any sound, select: I didn’t hear anything.

Sound test

Conclusion: Make the Most of Windows Audio Troubleshooter

In a world where sound is an essential aspect of our digital experience, having a reliable method to solve audio issues is paramount. The Windows Audio Troubleshooter is a built-in, user-friendly tool designed to help you identify and resolve various sound-related problems on your Windows 10 computer.

Whether you are dealing with no sound output, distorted audio, or trouble connecting external devices, the audio troubleshooter is your go-to solution. With the understanding of common reasons to use the Windows Audio Troubleshooter, you are now better equipped to address any audio hiccups and ensure a smooth and uninterrupted computing experience.

So, the next time you face any audio problems, don’t forget to give the Windows Audio Troubleshooter a try.

Shayne Sherman
Meet the author

Shayne is an expert on all things Microsoft Windows and computer security. As a Windows user of over 30 years, he has been featured on Business Insider, Yahoo, Tech Republic, Hacker Noon, Techopedia, and many other publications. Aside from entertaining at his home theater, he enjoys spending time with his family, including his English bulldog, Fergie.