Windows audio
Windows 11 no sound: check routing before drivers.
No sound can mean the wrong output, mute, app-specific mixer settings, effects, a disabled device or a missing driver. Identify the class first.
1. Select the intended output
Open Settings → System → Sound and choose the speakers or headphones you are actually listening to. HDMI, monitors, Bluetooth and headsets can create several valid outputs.
2. Check volume mixer
If system audio works but one app is silent, inspect the app’s volume and output routing instead of treating it like a missing driver.
3. Test without audio enhancements
Disable enhancements temporarily on the selected playback device and retest.
4. Missing device is a different symptom
If the output is absent entirely, then Device Manager, hardware detection and the current manufacturer driver become more relevant.