Introduction
No sound from computer can be very frustrating, especially when everything looks normal but you cannot hear anything. This problem may occur suddenly after starting the PC, after a Windows update, or while using headphones or speakers. Sometimes there is no sound from speakers, and other times headphones also do not work.
This issue is very common in both desktop computers and laptops. In most cases, it is not a hardware failure. It is usually caused by incorrect sound settings, disabled audio devices, driver problems, or loose connections. In this guide, you will learn step-by-step solutions to fix no sound problems on a Windows computer.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix No Sound from Computer
Step 1: Check Volume and Sound Output Device
- Click the speaker icon in the taskbar
- Make sure the volume is not muted
- Increase the volume level
- Select the correct output device (speakers or headphones)
Sometimes Windows sends sound to the wrong device.
Step 2: Check Speaker or Headphone Connections
Loose or incorrect connections can cause no sound.
- Ensure speakers or headphones are properly plugged in
- Check the correct audio jack (green port for speakers)
- Try another headphone or speaker to confirm
Step 3: Restart Windows Audio Services
If audio services are not running, sound will not work.
- Press Win + R, type services.msc, press Enter
- Find Windows Audio Right-click → Restart
- Also Find Windows Audio Endpoint Builder Right-click → Restart
This fixes many temporary sound issues.
Step 4: Set Correct Playback Device
Sometimes sound is working, but Windows is sending audio to the wrong device.
Follow these steps carefully:
- Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar
- Click Sound settings
- Under Output, check which device is selected
- Choose the correct device:
Speakers / Headphones (for wired audio)
Headset or HDMI audio (if using monitor speakers) - Click Device properties and make sure the device is not disabled
Step 5: Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers
Corrupted or missing drivers can cause no sound.
- Open Device Manager
- Expand Sound, video and game controllers
- Right-click the audio device → Update driver
- If updating does not work, uninstall the driver and restart the PC
Windows will reinstall the correct driver automatically.
Step 6: Check BIOS Audio Settings
If sound never works, audio may be disabled in BIOS.
- Restart the PC and enter BIOS (Del / F2 / F10)
- Check if Onboard Audio is enabled
- Save changes and exit
This step is important if audio stopped working after BIOS changes.
Step 7: Perform a Power Reset
Residual power can cause hardware-related sound issues.
- Shut down the PC
- Unplug the power cable
- Remove battery (laptop, if possible)
- Hold power button for 20–30 seconds
- Restart the PC
This helps reset hardware components.
Conclusion
No sound from a computer is a common problem and, in most cases, can be fixed with simple troubleshooting. The issue is usually related to incorrect sound settings, disabled audio devices, driver problems, or loose connections.
By following the step-by-step solutions in this guide—checking volume settings, restarting audio services, updating drivers, and verifying BIOS audio options—you can fix most sound problems without reinstalling Windows. If the issue still continues, it may indicate a hardware problem, and consulting a technician is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is there no sound from my computer but the volume is on?
This usually happens when the wrong playback device is selected or the audio service is not running.
Why does sound stop working after a Windows update?
Updates can install incompatible drivers. Reinstalling or updating the audio driver usually fixes the issue.
Why do my headphones work but speakers do not?
Speakers may be faulty, connected to the wrong port, or disabled in sound settings.
Can BIOS settings affect computer sound?
Yes. If onboard audio is disabled in BIOS, Windows will not detect any sound device.
Should I reinstall Windows if there is no sound?
Reinstalling Windows should be the last option. Most sound issues can be fixed with settings and driver troubleshooting.
Can a faulty sound card cause no audio?
Yes. If the internal sound card is damaged, using an external USB sound card is a good alternative.
Is no sound a serious hardware issue?
Usually no. Most sound problems are software-related and easy to fix.