Windows Update causes audio error: Realtek(R) Audio - "This device Cannot start."

[RGB4363]

Error message:  Realtek(R) Audio INTELAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_10EC&DEV_0285&SUBSYS_103C87C1&REV_1000\5&11B2CAF1&1&0001DIF_000A&UIF_0000            This device cannot start.

More info: 

Name                         Realtek HighDefinition Audio

Manufacturer            Realtek

Status                         Error

PNP Device ID 

INTELAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_10EC&DEV_0285&SUBSYS_103C87C1&REV_1000\5&11B2CAF1&1&0001DIF_000A&UIF_0000

Driver

C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\DRIVERSTORE\FILEREPOSITORY\HDXSSTHPNB.INF_AMD64_161661B09F5C1EDF\RTKVHD64.SYS (6.0.9867.1, 6.46 MB (6,769,176 bytes), 8/5/2025 8:05 PM)

[Deep_World]

Hi @RGB4363,
 
Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

Sorry for the inconvenience caused don’t worry let me help you.

To better understand the issue, could you please provide a few more details?

• Did the audio stop working immediately after the update, or did it happen after a restart?
• Are you seeing this error only for the Realtek device, or do other audio devices (like Bluetooth or HDMI audio) also show issues?
• Have you tried reinstalling the driver yet?

Here are some steps you can try right away:

1. Check Device Manager
   • Open Device Manager → expand Sound, video and game controllers.
   • Right‑click Realtek High Definition Audio → select Uninstall device.
   • Restart your PC Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.
2. Update or Roll Back Driver
   • In Device Manager, right‑click the Realtek device → Properties → Driver tab.
   • If the issue started after an update, try Roll Back Driver.
   • Alternatively, choose Update Driver → Browse my computer → point to the latest Realtek driver from HP’s support site.
3. Run Windows Troubleshooter
   • Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
   • Run the Playing Audio troubleshooter to detect and fix common issues.
4. Check Windows Update History
   • Sometimes a recent update conflicts with drivers.
   • Go to Settings → Windows Update → Update history.
   • If you see a recent driver update for Realtek, you can uninstall it and reinstall the HP‑recommended version.
5. BIOS/Chipset Update (if needed)

• On some HP systems, updating the BIOS or chipset drivers helps stabilize audio devices after major Windows updates.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 

Best regards,

Deep_World