The quickest fix is usually to unmute your computer and raise the main volume, then check that the correct output device is selected. If that does not work, restart the audio service or update/reinstall the audio driver, which is a common fix for Windows sound issues.

Try these first

  1. Click the speaker icon in the taskbar.
  2. Make sure volume is not muted and the slider is up.
  3. Select the right output device, like Speakers or Headphones.
  4. Open the volume mixer and check that the system and app volumes are not muted.

Windows sound settings

  • Go to Settings > System > Sound.
  • Confirm your output device is enabled.
  • Turn off audio enhancements if sound is missing or distorted.
  • If the volume icon is missing, turn the system volume icon back on in taskbar settings.

Driver fixes

  • Open Device Manager.
  • Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
  • Update the audio driver.
  • If that fails, uninstall the device and restart so Windows can reinstall it.

Mac check

If you are on a Mac, open System Settings > Sound, then make sure output volume is up and the correct output device is selected. If audio still fails, restart the computer and check whether Bluetooth headphones or external speakers are taking over the output.

Fast test

Plug in headphones or connect a different speaker. If sound works there, the issue is likely your original speakers, output selection, or a muted app rather than the whole computer.

TL;DR: unmute, raise the volume, choose the right output device, then update the audio driver if needed.