Fix guide · Microphone test
How to enable and test your microphone on Windows 11
On Windows 11 a microphone can fail for three separate reasons: the device is not selected as the input, privacy settings block apps or your browser, or a driver setting such as exclusive mode gets in the way. Run the live check first, then work through the steps in order until the level bar moves.
Quick fix checklist
- 1Open Settings > System > Sound. Under Input, choose your microphone and drag the input volume up.
- 2Open Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone and turn on Microphone access, Let apps access your microphone and Let desktop apps access your microphone.
- 3In Sound settings click your microphone, then press Start test under Test your microphone to see the level.
- 4Open More sound settings > Recording, double-click the microphone, and on the Levels tab make sure it is not muted. Try turning off Audio enhancements.
- 5On the Advanced tab turn off Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device, then press Apply.
- 6Right-click Start, open Device Manager > Audio inputs and outputs, and update or reinstall the microphone driver. Restart the browser and check again.
Common Windows 11 microphone problems
The most common cause is the privacy switch. Windows has a master switch for microphone access, a list for apps, and a separate switch for desktop apps such as browsers. If any one is off, the microphone stays silent without any message. A headset plugged in later can also take over as the default input, so check which device is selected after you connect or disconnect hardware.
If the live check works but an app does not
When the live check shows a moving level, Windows and the hardware are fine. Open the audio settings inside the app and pick the same microphone there. See the guides for Zoom and Discord, or run the full microphone health check to measure noise and level.
FAQ
Common questions
How do I test my microphone on Windows 11?
Open Settings > System > Sound, choose your microphone under Input and press Start test. You can also use the live check on this page, which works in your browser.
Why is my microphone not working after a Windows 11 update?
Updates can reset privacy access or change the default input. Check Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone and the selected input device.
How do I stop Windows from lowering my microphone volume?
Open the microphone properties, turn off Audio enhancements and exclusive control, and switch off automatic gain in the app that changes it.
Does the browser test send my voice anywhere?
No. The check runs in your browser and nothing is uploaded or recorded.