Microphone Not Working on Windows 11
Check microphone permissions, input selection and levels for calls and recordings.
What this means
Microphone issues often come from app permissions or the wrong input device rather than a broken microphone. Start by testing in Windows itself.
Common symptoms
- Apps cannot hear you
- Microphone detected but silent
- Only one video-call app fails
Step-by-step checklist
Work through the steps in order. Check each box when done.
Reseat your headset or USB microphone; confirm its mute switch is off. On a Bluetooth headset, make sure the device is connected in audio mode.
Settings → System → Sound → Input. Select the microphone you want and check that its input level moves when you speak.
Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone. Enable Microphone access, Let apps access your microphone and, for browsers and desktop apps, Let desktop apps access your microphone.
Use Windows Sound input testing or Voice Recorder. If it works there, check the microphone selected inside Zoom, Teams or the browser call app.
If Windows cannot detect the device, look in Device Manager and install updates from Windows Update or your device manufacturer. Restart and retest.
Still not resolved?
If another microphone works on the same computer, inspect the original microphone and cable or consult its manufacturer.
Only grant microphone permission to apps you trust. MyPCWorld cannot remotely access or repair your microphone.
