Checking for and Enabling Microphone in Windows

Issue/Question

How do I check if my computer has a microphone and enable it if necessary?

Environment

• Windows 11

Resolution

1. Right-click Start and select Settings.
2. Click System.
3. Select Sound from right pane.
4. Under Input section, look for Choose a device for speaking or recording.
5. If a microphone is listed, speak or tap microphone to see if the Test your microphone bar moves, indicating it is detected and working.
6. If no microphone is listed or it says No input devices found, continue to the next step.
7. Click Manage sound devices below input devices list.
8. Under Input devices section, check for any disabled microphones.
9. If a microphone is disabled, click it and then click Enable.
10. If no microphone appears, right-click anywhere in the list and select Show disabled devices and Show disconnected devices.
11. If a microphone appears after showing disabled or disconnected devices, enable it as described above.
12. If the microphone still does not appear or says Not plugged in, verify that an external microphone is properly connected to the computer.

If you need assistance, please contact the ITS Service Desk or submit a service request by clicking the Request Service button.