Realtek HD Audio Driver Installation Error – Fix Error 0xE0000246
Key Notes
- Error code 0xE0000246 is linked to audio driver installation failures.
- Reinstalling the device is crucial for troubleshooting.
- Always download drivers from the official manufacturer’s website.
Resolving Realtek HD Audio Driver Installation Error 0xE0000246
Experiencing an installation failure message for the Realtek HD Audio Driver with error code 0xE0000246? This guide provides effective solutions to resolve this audio driver issue on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix the Error
Encountering the Realtek HD Audio Driver failure? The following solutions will help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Step 1: Reinstall the Device
This is often the primary step to address the installation failure. Uninstall the current driver to initiate a fresh installation process. To do this:
- Press Win + X and open Device Manager.
- Locate Sound, video and game controllers and right-click on your Realtek device (commonly appears as Realtek(R) Audio ).
- Select Uninstall device and confirm the action.
- Restart your computer to allow Windows to attempt the reinstallation automatically.
Pro Tip: After uninstalling, make sure to check for Windows updates as they may contain useful driver information.
Step 2: Download the Driver from the Official Website
Ensure that the Realtek HD Audio Driver is not only up-to-date but obtained safely. Download drivers exclusively from realtek.com, matching your system’s architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
Pro Tip: Avoid third-party websites to reduce the risk of unwanted software or malware, which can further complicate the situation.
Step 3: Add Legacy Hardware
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to manually add the hardware. Here’s how:
- Open Device Manager then click on Action followed by Add Legacy Hardware.
- Select Install the hardware that I manually select from a list and click Next.
- Choose Sound, video and game controllers from the list.
- Select Realtek as the manufacturer and click Next to proceed with installation.
Restart your computer to complete the installation process.
Additional Tips
- Regularly check for driver updates to prevent issues in the future.
- Verify that your Windows operating system is fully updated.
- Ensure that all hardware is properly connected to avoid recognition issues.
Summary
The Realtek HD Audio Driver Installation Failure with error code 0xE0000246 can be frustrating but can typically be resolved through effective troubleshooting steps like reinstalling the device, downloading the latest official drivers, or adding the hardware as legacy. Keeping the driver updated plays a critical role in maintaining audio functionality on your computer.
Conclusion
Resolving the Realtek HD Audio Driver failure is crucial for optimal audio performance on your Windows system. By following the outlined steps, you can effectively address the error code 0xE0000246. If issues persist, consider seeking further assistance from technical support or official forums.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
How do I fix Realtek audio driver failure?
First, uninstall and reinstall the device. Next, ensure you download the latest driver from the official website, making sure it matches your system’s architecture. You may also need to add it as legacy hardware via Device Manager if the issue continues.
How do I fix no Realtek HD Audio Manager?
Ensure the audio manager is installed; if not, download the driver from realtek.com. Sometimes the manager can be hidden, so check the option for Show hidden devices in Device Manager. As a final measure, you can add it as legacy hardware if it remains unavailable.