No Audio after a clean install of Windows 11

[DxR1]

I bought this laptop some time ago but I am only now trying to set it up.  On first powering it up, it took me through a clean install on Windows 11.  Everything went fine and I applied all the Windows Updates.  Again no issues.  I have found that the sound doesn't work.  Device Manager shows an Intel High Definition Audio device which has no driver.  I can not find a driver for this device anywhere.  I have tried a search on the laptop, Windows Update, automatic updates on the Intel site.  No success.  The HP Support website has a driver for a Realtek High Definition Driver but that doesn't work either.  Can anyone throw any light on this, please?

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @DxR1 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for the detailed background and for already trying multiple driver sources—that’s incredibly helpful. Since Device Manager shows an Intel High Definition Audio device with no driver, and Realtek drivers don’t work, it’s likely the system is missing a chipset or audio controller driver that enables proper detection. 

Let’s walk through a clean, layered approach to restore sound.

Step-by-step recovery for missing audio after Windows 11 clean install

1. Install HP Support Assistant and run Audio Check

This tool can detect missing drivers and install the correct ones.

• Download and install from: HP Support Assistant
• Open the app, go to My devices, select your laptop
• Click Troubleshooting and fixes > Audio Check
• Follow the prompts and install any suggested updates

 

2. Install Intel Chipset and MEI Drivers

These are essential for enabling onboard components like audio.

• Visit HP Software and Driver Downloads
• Enter your laptop’s model number
• Download and install:
  • Intel Chipset Installation Utility
  • Intel Management Engine Interface (MEI)
• Restart your laptop after each install

These drivers help Windows correctly identify and initialize the audio controller.

 

3. Install the correct Audio Driver

If your system uses Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST), you’ll need the matching driver.

• On the same HP driver page, look for:
  • Realtek High Definition Audio (SST)
  • Or Intel Smart Sound Technology Audio Driver
• Download and install the one that matches your system
• Restart your laptop

If unsure which one applies, I can help identify it based on your laptop model.

 

4. Manually update the driver via Device Manager

If the driver still shows as missing:

• Press Windows + X, select Device Manager
• Right-click Intel High Definition Audio > Update driver
• Choose Browse my computer for drivers
• Then select Let me pick from a list of available drivers
• If you see High Definition Audio Device or Realtek Audio, select it and click Next

This forces Windows to use a generic driver that may restore basic functionality.

 

5. Run Windows Audio Troubleshooter

• Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters
• Run the Playing Audio troubleshooter
• Follow the on-screen steps

For deeper guidance, you can also refer to:

• HP PCs – No Audio Device Installed
• Advanced Sound Troubleshooting in Windows

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye