Windows 10 PC , the Sound icon, on the Notification Area of The Taskbar freezes after booting.

[rogergr]

On a Windows 10 PC  [HP Envy Desktop - 750-100nv (ENERGY STAR)], the Sound icon, on the Notification Area of the Taskbar,  (and its functions) freezes after booting. When I restart "explorer.exe" via Task Manager, most of the time, the sound icon's operations are restored.  

How can I overcome this issue??

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @rogergr,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding the sound icon freezing issue on Windows 10 for the HP Envy Desktop!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

Try these steps:

Update Audio Drivers:

• Ensure that your audio drivers are up to date. Visit the HP Drivers and Downloads page, enter your product model, and install the latest audio drivers for your HP Envy Desktop.

Restart Windows Explorer:

• You've mentioned restarting "explorer.exe" via Task Manager resolves the issue temporarily:
  • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  • Locate and select "Windows Explorer" under the "Processes" tab.
  • Click "Restart" to reboot Explorer, which can temporarily restore the sound icon functionality.

Run Windows Troubleshooter:

• Use Windows built-in audio troubleshooter to detect and fix sound-related issues:
  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  • Select Playing Audio and run the troubleshooter.

Perform a Clean Boot:

• A clean boot allows you to start Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs. It can help determine if background programs are causing the issue:
  • Press Windows Key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  • Under the General tab, select Selective startup and uncheck Load startup items.
  • Navigate to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and select Disable all.
  • Restart your computer.

Check for System Updates:

• Make sure your system is fully updated:
  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.

Update or Reinstall Windows:

• If none of the steps above work, consider reinstalling or updating Windows using Microsoft's Media Creation Tool to keep the system integrity intact.

Disable Third-Party Applications:

• Some third-party applications might interfere with system processes. Consider disabling or uninstalling recently installed applications and checking if the issue persists.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,