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No sound after an update: switch the audio driver

Step 1 of 3

Open Update driver for the sound device

In Device Manager › Sound, video and game controllers, right-click the sound device (for example Realtek Audio) and choose Update driver.

The simulation shows Windows in English, like most laptops.

  1. Open Update driver for the sound device

    In Device Manager › Sound, video and game controllers, right-click the sound device (for example Realtek Audio) and choose Update driver.

    Device ManagerSound, video and game controllersUpdate driver

  2. Choose Browse my computer, then Let me pick

    Click Browse my computer for drivers, then Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.

    Browse my computer for driversLet me pick from a list

  3. Choose High Definition Audio Device, then Next

    This is Windows’ own, very stable sound driver. Restart the laptop afterwards.

    Want to go back? Repeat these steps and pick the old driver.
Technical details (for the curious)

Maker driver vs built-in driver

The Realtek/Conexant driver from the laptop maker adds extras (sound effects, Dolby, jack detection). High Definition Audio Device is Microsoft’s generic driver: fewer features, but it almost always makes sound.

Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST)

Newer Intel laptops route sound through Intel SST. If the “Intel Smart Sound Technology” driver under System devices is broken or missing, the speakers and built-in mic stop too. Reinstall it from the laptop maker’s site first, then the audio driver.

Other things to check

Settings › System › Sound › your device › Audio enhancements: try turning them off. Make sure the Windows Audio service is running (services.msc).

Microphone gone too?

The built-in mic often uses the same driver. After switching, check Settings › Privacy & security › Microphone.

Coming soon

Still not fixed?

In the next update you can tell us what happened, and our AI helper will suggest another way. Until then, restart the device and go through the steps once more.