Microphone not working in Windows

• Estimated time: 2 min
• Easy
• Low risk

Make sure you are testing the intended microphone.

1. Unmute the microphone or headset physically and check its external connection.

2. Open Settings > System > Sound and select the intended device under Input.

• Estimated time: 3 min
• Easy
• Low risk

A local test separates the app from the device.

1. In Windows 11 open that input’s properties in Sound and run the microphone test; speak normally and play the sample. In Windows 10 check the input test indicator.

2. Adjust input volume if needed. If the test works, check that the app uses the same microphone.

3. A successful recording demonstrates that this microphone and the basic Windows path work in the test. If only one app fails, check its input, mute, or push-to-talk before reinstalling drivers. Distinguish physical mute from the app’s internal control.

• Estimated time: 3 min
• Easy
• Low risk

Allow access only where it is needed.

1. In Windows 11 open Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone; in Windows 10 open Privacy > Microphone. Check device-wide and app access.

2. For desktop programs, check desktop-app access and their internal input selector. Not every program has an individual Windows permission switch.

3. If several desktop apps fail but the local test works, shared desktop access becomes more relevant. If only one site fails, also check that domain’s microphone permission and the page’s selected input: authorizing the browser in Windows does not automatically authorize every site. Grant access only where trusted and needed.

4. If Windows records, permissions and input are correct, and one app still fails, contact its support with that comparison. For Discord-specific controls, retain its dedicated guide. Do not install virtual audio, edit the Registry, or randomly change audio enhancements.