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Do you know how to Fix ‘Headphones Not Working’ issue on Windows 11/10? If your headphones are not functioning, perhaps after you have installed an update, it may be because the operating system and drivers are not compatible with each other. When updates are applied to multiple computer components, the goal is to fix things that are broken; however, these updates can sometimes cause other components to lose their functionality. One example of this would be if a Windows Update caused the headphones to become damaged. Any audio that is being played through the headphones is stopped by the computer.
The incompatibility of the drivers is the root cause of this error. It is impossible to have a complete experience on a personal computer without headphones. One thing, however, is causing users to be concerned. Under Windows 11, their headphones are not detected and do not function properly. This problem may be brought on by a number of factors, including physical damage, operational glitches, or even the selection of incorrect settings. You will be able to solve your problem with the help of this guide.
Prior to attempting the fixes that are listed below, we recommend that you restart your computer. You might find that a simple restart is the solution to your issue. After that, you should attempt to connect your headphones to the computer. Make sure that the headphones you are using are properly plugged in if you are using wired headphones. Make sure that your headphones are ready to pair with your Bluetooth device if you are using them. Here are the ways how to Fix ‘Headphones Not Working’ issue on Windows 11/10.
What are the causes of ‘Headphones Not Working’ issue on Windows 11/10
- Faulty Hardware: The headphones themselves may be faulty. Check if they work on other devices to rule out hardware issues.
- Disconnected or Loose Cables: Ensure that all cables connecting your headphones to the computer are properly connected and not loose.
- Audio Driver Issues: Outdated or corrupted audio drivers can cause headphone problems. Update or reinstall your audio drivers.
- Incorrect Playback Device Settings: Check if your headphones are set as the default playback device. Right-click on the speaker icon in the taskbar, select ‘Open Sound settings,’ and ensure the correct device is selected.
- Audio Enhancements and Effects: Some audio enhancements or effects may interfere with headphone functionality. Disable any enhancements by going to Sound settings > Playback devices > Right-click on the headphones > Properties > Enhancements tab.
- Disabled Audio Service: Ensure that the Windows Audio service is running. Press Win + R, type services.msc, find Windows Audio, and make sure it’s set to Automatic and running.
- Conflicting Applications: Some applications may take control of audio devices. Close applications that might use the audio, especially ones with communication features.
How to Fix ‘Headphones Not Working’ issue on Windows 11/10
Update Audio Drivers
- Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
- Locate and expand the “Sound, video and game controllers” section.
- Right-click on your audio device and choose “Update driver.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to update the driver.
Run Windows Troubleshooter
- Open Settings and navigate to “Update & Security.”
- Select “Troubleshoot” from the left-hand menu.
- Click on “Additional troubleshooters.“
- Find and run the “Playing Audio” troubleshooter.
Adjust Sound Settings
- Right-click on the speaker icon in the taskbar and choose “Open Sound settings.“
- Under the “Output” section, verify that your headphones are selected as the default playback device.
Disable Audio Enhancements
- Right-click on the speaker icon in the taskbar and select “Open Sound settings.”
- Click on “Sound Control Panel” and locate your headphones in the Playback tab.
- Right-click on your headphones and choose “Properties.”
- Navigate to the “Enhancements” tab and uncheck all enhancements.
Check Power Management Settings
- Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
- Locate your audio device, right-click, and choose “Properties.”
- Go to the “Power Management” tab and uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.“
Disable Front Panel Jack Detection
- Open the Realtek HD Audio Manager from the control panel.
- Navigate to the Connector Settings tab.
- Uncheck the box that says “Disable front panel jack detection.”
Conclusion
Are you having trouble getting your headphones to work with your notebook, tablet, or desktop computer that runs Windows 11? This guide will provide you with a comprehensive breakdown of the most common causes of headphone bugs in Windows 11, as well as a large number of tried-and-true solutions and fixes that will assist you in connecting your headphones and ensuring that they are playing audio in the recommended manner.
Questions and Answers
To determine whether or not your headphones are included in the list of available options, right-click the speaker or sound icon located in the lower-right corner of the desktop and select Sounds > Playback. There is a possibility that Windows 10 will not detect it if it does not have a green tick mark next to it. In this case, you will be required to install new drivers. Make sure the Sounds device is being used.
It is possible that you will not be able to hear audio coming from your headphones if the audio jack is broken or bent, or if the cable is damaged or exposed. See if the audio jack on your device is bent. Inspect the cable to see if it is damaged. It is possible that the headphones are damaged, even if you do not observe any visible signs of damage.
In the event that your headset has a Mute button, check to see that it is not operating. Ensure that your computer is properly connected to your microphone or headset by checking the hardware settings. Make certain that the microphone or headset you are using is set as the default recording device for the system. Make sure to select Start, then navigate to Settings > System > Sound.