Why Is There No Sound on My Computer?
No sound can be caused by muted audio, the wrong output device, a disconnected speaker or headset, an app setting, or a temporary Windows problem. Start with the simplest checks first.
What’s happening?
Your computer may be working normally even when you cannot hear anything. Windows can send sound through built-in speakers, headphones, a monitor, Bluetooth equipment, or USB audio devices. Sometimes the computer is simply using a different output than the one you expected.
If there is no sound anywhere, including from a video or other known-working audio source, the problem may be with the computer's sound settings, an attached device, Windows, or the audio hardware.
Common causes
- The computer is muted or the volume is turned down.
- Sound is being sent to headphones, a monitor, Bluetooth device, or another output.
- A speaker, headset, cable, or Bluetooth internet connection is not connected correctly.
- The individual app has its own mute or volume setting.
- A recent update or temporary Windows problem affected audio.
- The computer's speakers or other audio hardware may have a problem.
Things you can safely try
- Check the volume. Select the speaker icon near the clock and make sure the volume is turned up and not muted.
- Try a known-working sound. Play a video, music track, or other audio you normally know should make sound. This helps determine whether the problem is limited to one program.
- Check where the sound is going. Open the computer's sound output choices and make sure the intended speakers, headphones, or monitor are selected.
- Reconnect your audio device. If you use wired headphones or speakers, unplug and reconnect them securely. If you use Bluetooth, make sure the device is powered on and still connected.
- Check the app's own volume. Some websites and programs have a separate mute button or volume control. Make sure the program you are using is not muted.
- Restart the computer normally. If the sound suddenly stopped and the computer otherwise works normally, a regular restart can clear a temporary problem.
Stop here
Stop basic checks if you notice smoke, a burning smell, unusual heat, liquid damage, a damaged power internet connection, or other signs of physical damage. Also avoid changing advanced Windows settings or installing random “audio fixer” programs just because a website says they are required.
If the computer still has no sound after the basic checks, especially if the problem began after a hardware change or keeps returning, it may be time for professional help.
Still having trouble?
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If you’ve tried the basic checks steps and still need help, we’re here to help.
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