- There's no sound from your computer
- Sound works in some things but not others
- People can't hear you on video calls
- Find something that definitely makes sound, like a YouTube video, to test with.
The Windows key is the key with the four-squares logo, usually bottom left between Ctrl and Alt. When a step says Windows key + I, hold the Windows key down, tap I once, then let go of both.
Fix no sound
-
Pick the right speakers
Click the speaker icon at the bottom right of the screen.
- Windows 11: click the small > arrow next to the volume slider and choose your speakers or headphones.
- Windows 10: click the device name above the volume slider and choose from the list.
If you see a TV, monitor or old Bluetooth headphones selected, that's probably where your sound has been going. -
Check nothing is muted
Turn the volume slider up. Check your keyboard's mute key (often has a speaker with a line through it, and may have a small light). If you use external speakers, check they're switched on and turned up.
-
Check the app's own volume
Right-click the speaker icon → Volume mixer. Make sure the program you're using isn't turned right down. Videos on websites also have their own volume control.
-
Restart the computer
Start → Power → Restart.
-
Run the sound troubleshooter
Windows key + I → System → Sound → scroll down to Troubleshoot common sound problems → Output devices. Follow what it suggests.
-
Try headphones
Plug in wired headphones. If they work but the speakers don't, the speakers themselves may have failed. A cheap pair of USB or Bluetooth speakers is usually better value than repairing laptop speakers.
Microphone not working on calls
-
Allow apps to use the microphone
Windows key + I → Privacy & security → Microphone (Windows 10: Privacy → Microphone). Turn on Microphone access and Let apps access your microphone, and make sure your calling app is switched on in the list.
-
Check the mic is picking you up
Settings → System → Sound → under Input, choose your microphone. Speak and watch the level bar move.
-
Check inside the call
In Zoom, Teams or WhatsApp, make sure the microphone icon isn't crossed out (muted), and in the app's settings the same microphone is selected.
Some laptops have a microphone mute key (a microphone with a line through it), often with a small light when muted.
- There's crackling, popping or buzzing that doesn't go away
- Sound stopped after a drink was spilled on the laptop
- Windows says "No audio output device is installed" after a restart
Still stuck? I'm happy to help.
If this didn't sort it, or you'd rather not do it yourself, get in touch. I cover Sheffield S20 and the surrounding areas.
Did this guide help? These guides are free for everyone. If it saved you a call-out, you can say thanks with a coffee.
Buy me a coffeeThese guides are general advice for home users, checked in September 2026. Menus can differ slightly between versions of Windows and between phone makers. If something looks different or you're unsure, stop and ask rather than guessing. Parmar Tech Solutions can't accept responsibility for problems caused by following these steps, so please back up anything important first.