Microphone not working on Windows 11
If your microphone isn't working on Windows 11, it's almost always one of three things: the wrong input device is selected, the mic is muted, or an app doesn't have permission. Work through the steps below, then confirm with the live test.
Step-by-step fix
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Open Settings → System → Sound → Input/Output and pick the correct microphone as the default input.
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Make sure it isn't muted — in software and on any hardware mute switch.
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Grant microphone permission to your browser and app in Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone.
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Run the CheckMyMic microphone test and speak — watch for the live meter and a green "your mic works" verdict.
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Still nothing? Update or reinstall your audio driver, then restart Windows 11.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my mic detected but silent on Windows 11?
Usually the input level is at zero or the wrong device is selected. Raise the input volume in Settings → System → Sound → Input/Output and confirm the active device matches the mic you're speaking into.
How do I know which microphone Windows 11 is using?
Open the CheckMyMic mic test, press Start, and use the device dropdown — the mic that moves the meter when you speak is the active one. It should match the default input shown in Settings → System → Sound → Input/Output; if it doesn't, Windows 11 is capturing from a different device than you expect.
I've tried every step and my mic still doesn't work on Windows 11 — what now?
Isolate the fault: try the mic on another device or port, and try a different mic on this machine. If the CheckMyMic mic test stays silent only on Windows 11, the fix is in software — recheck Settings → System → Sound → Input/Output and Settings → Privacy & security. If it fails only inside one app, our dedicated Zoom, Teams and Discord mic guides cover the app-side settings.
Could another app be blocking my mic on Windows 11?
Yes. Open the mic's properties from Settings → System → Sound and, under Advanced, untick "Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device". Then check Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone — it lists which apps used the mic recently, so you can spot (and close) whichever one is holding it. Discord and Zoom left running in the tray are common culprits.