How to Fix No Sound on Computer

Fix computer sound issues with these step-by-step troubleshooting solutions. Resolve audio driver problems, check connections, and restore sound quickly.

1. Check physical connections and volume levels. Verify speakers or headphones are properly connected to the correct audio port. Check that the volume is turned up on both your computer and external speakers. Look for a mute button or switch on your speakers and ensure it's not activated.
2. Verify system volume and mute settings. On Windows, click the speaker icon in the system tray and ensure volume is above 50% and not muted. On Mac, click the volume icon in the menu bar or press the volume up key to check levels. Open Sound settings to confirm the correct output device is selected.
3. Update or reinstall audio drivers. On Windows, open Device Manager, expand 'Sound, video and game controllers,' right-click your audio device, and select 'Update driver.' If that fails, select 'Uninstall device' and restart your computer to reinstall. On Mac, restart your computer to reset audio drivers automatically.
4. Run the built-in audio troubleshooter. Windows users should go to Settings > System > Sound > Troubleshoot common sound problems. Mac users can hold Option and click the volume icon, then select your audio device to check for issues. Follow the on-screen prompts to identify and fix problems automatically.
5. Check default playback device settings. On Windows, right-click the speaker icon, select 'Open Sound settings,' and verify the correct device appears under 'Choose your output device.' On Mac, go to Apple menu > System Preferences > Sound > Output tab and select the appropriate device.
6. Restart audio services. On Windows, press Windows key + R, type 'services.msc,' find 'Windows Audio' service, right-click and select 'Restart.' Also restart 'Windows Audio Endpoint Builder' service. On Mac, restart your computer to reset all audio services.
7. Test with different audio sources. Try playing audio from different applications like a web browser, music player, or system sounds. Test with different audio files or streaming services to isolate whether the problem affects all audio or specific sources.