Microphone Not Detected on Windows 11
When Windows 11 doesn't detect your microphone, apps and websites can't access audio input. This page covers how to fix microphone detection issues on Windows 11. Check privacy settings first, then verify device selection and drivers.
You can use the online microphone test to confirm whether your device is working.
Enable Microphone Privacy Settings
Windows 11 privacy settings can block microphone access. Verify these are enabled.
- Open Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone
- Ensure "Microphone access" is turned on
- Check "Let desktop apps access your microphone" if needed
- Restart your computer after changing these settings
- Test microphone again
Check Sound Input Settings
Verify your microphone is selected and enabled in Windows 11 sound settings.
- Open Settings → System → Sound
- Go to Input section
- Check that your microphone appears in the device list
- Ensure the microphone is not muted
- Test the microphone using the "Test your microphone" button
- Adjust input volume if needed
Update Audio Drivers
Outdated or missing audio drivers prevent microphone detection. Update drivers. If your microphone still isn't detected after updating, see the guide on microphone not working for additional troubleshooting steps.
- Open Device Manager (Win + X → Device Manager)
- Expand "Audio inputs and outputs"
- Right-click your microphone device
- Select "Update driver"
- Choose "Search automatically for drivers"
- Restart your computer after updating
Check Device Manager
Verify your microphone appears in Device Manager and isn't disabled.
- Open Device Manager
- Expand "Audio inputs and outputs"
- Look for your microphone device
- If it shows a warning icon, right-click and select "Enable device"
- If the device is missing, check physical connections
Verify Physical Connections
Check that USB microphones are properly connected and recognized.
- Unplug and reconnect USB microphones
- Try a different USB port
- Check for Windows notification when connecting USB devices
- Test with a different USB cable if available
- For 3.5mm microphones, ensure the jack is fully inserted
Run Audio Troubleshooter
Windows 11 includes an audio troubleshooter that can fix common issues.
- Open Settings → System → Troubleshoot
- Click "Other troubleshooters"
- Find "Recording Audio" and click "Run"
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Test microphone after troubleshooting
Test Microphone Detection
After trying these steps, use the online microphone test to verify Windows 11 detects your microphone. The test shows real-time volume levels and confirms device detection.
You can use the online microphone test to confirm everything is working.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my microphone not detected on Windows 11?
Microphone not detected issues on Windows 11 are usually caused by disabled privacy settings, outdated drivers, wrong input device selection, or hardware connection problems. Check Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone first, then verify device selection and drivers.
How do I enable microphone in Windows 11?
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone → Ensure "Microphone access" is enabled. Also check Settings → System → Sound → Input to verify your microphone is selected and not muted.
Use the online microphone test to confirm everything is working.