The Windows 11 update disabled my microphone

[remix2OG]

I need the best practice to restore the function of my laptop after the Windows  11 rendered the device inoperable

[NonSequitur777]

@remix2OG,

Welcome to our HP Community forum!

If Windows 11 disabled your microphone after an update, here are some steps you can try to restore functionality:

1. Check Privacy Settings:

• Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone.

• Make sure Microphone access and Let apps use your microphone are both turned On.

2. Run Windows Troubleshooter:

• Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.

• Run the Recording Audio troubleshooter.

3. Verify Device Settings:

• Right-click the speaker icon → Sound settings → Input.

• Make sure the correct microphone is selected as the default input device.

• Speak into the mic — if the bar moves, it’s working.

4. Update/Reinstall Audio Driver:

• Open Device Manager → Sound, video and game controllers.

• Right-click your audio device (usually Realtek or AMD/Intel) → Update driver.

• If that doesn’t help: uninstall the device, restart the laptop, and let Windows reinstall it automatically.

• You can also download the latest audio driver from the HP Support site for your model.

5. BIOS & Windows Update:

• Install the latest BIOS for your laptop (from HP’s drivers page).

• Make sure all cumulative Windows updates are applied, as some patches fix audio regressions.

---

If none of these steps restore the microphone, please post back with your exact product number so I can point you to the correct driver package for your model: Please type in: System Information in your lower Windows search bar, click on the System Information app, look to the right of "System Model", "System SKU" and "BaseBoard Product", and provide that information.

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777