Headphones Only Function After Restarting Windows PC
Key Notes
- Run the Audio troubleshooter to diagnose issues.
- Set your headphones as the default audio device in settings.
- Consider disabling Audio Enhancements if problems persist.
Fixing Headphone Issues on Windows: A Practical Guide
If you’re facing headphone issues that require a restart of your Windows computer to function properly, this guide offers in-depth solutions. We will explore the common causes, such as outdated drivers, audio service problems, and various troubleshooting steps to help you restore full functionality to your audio devices.
Resolving Headphone Issues After Restarting Windows
If your headphones operate only after a system restart, follow these detailed steps to resolve the issue:
Step 1: Run the Audio Troubleshooter
Begin your troubleshooting by running the built-in Audio troubleshooter. To do this, access the Get Help app on your Windows 11 PC. This helpful tool will automatically detect and potentially fix common audio issues.
Step 2: Set Your Headphones as the Default Device
Setting your headphones as the default audio output can solve many issues. Follow these steps:
- Open the Control Panel through the Windows search bar.
- Navigate to the Sound settings.
- Select the Playback tab.
- Right-click your headphones and pick “Set as Default Device.”
- Open Properties and adjust the volume under the Levels tab.
- Uncheck “Allow Applications to take exclusive controls on this device” in the Advanced tab.
- Apply your changes and exit.
Step 3: Disable Audio Enhancements
Some audio issues can be traced to Audio Enhancements. Use the following steps to disable them:
- Access the Control Panel and type “sound” in the search.
- Open your Speakers properties by double-clicking on “Speakers.”
- Uncheck “Enable audio enhancements” under the Advanced tab.
- Hit Apply and then OK.
Step 4: Check the Status of Required Services
The Windows Audio Service is crucial for audio output. Here’s how to check the services:
- Press Win + R to open the run dialog, then enter services.msc.
- Locate “Windows Audio” and “Windows Audio Endpoint Builder.”
- Right-click each service to start or restart as necessary.
- Set the Startup type to Automatic in properties.
Step 5: Disable and Re-enable the Audio Driver
Resetting the audio driver may fix several issues. Here’s how:
- Launch the Device Manager.
- Expand the “Sound, video, and game controllers” section.
- Right-click on the Realtek High Definition Audio driver, select “Disable device, ” wait a moment, then re-enable it.
Step 6: Uninstall and Reinstall the Audio Driver
Forcing Windows to reinstall the audio driver can rectify issues:
- Go to the Device Manager and find your audio driver.
- Right-click and select “Uninstall device.”
- After uninstalling, download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website and install it.
Step 7: Update the BIOS
Lastly, ensure your BIOS is up-to-date, as outdated firmware can lead to hardware issues:
- Check your current BIOS version using System Information or Command Prompt.
- Visit your computer manufacturer’s website to look for updates.
- Follow their instructions to download and install any available BIOS updates.
Additional Tips
- Ensure all connections are secure, and try different USB ports if you are using USB headphones.
- Consider running Windows Update regularly to keep your system and drivers current.
- If possible, test your headphones on another device to confirm they’re functioning correctly.
Summary
The guide provides comprehensive steps to troubleshoot headphone issues caused by various factors, including audio settings and driver errors. Following each step can help restore audio functionality without needing constant reboots.
Conclusion
By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively resolve headphone issues on your Windows computer. Always make sure to keep your system updated and regularly check audio settings to prevent future problems.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why are my headphones not working when I plug them in?
Common reasons include poor connections, damaged audio ports, outdated audio drivers, or device compatibility issues. Testing with another device can help determine where the fault lies.
How do I reinstall audio drivers?
To reinstall audio drivers, go to Device Manager, expand the Sound, video and game controllers section, right-click your audio driver, select “Uninstall device, ” and reboot. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically. Alternatively, download the latest version from the manufacturer’s website.
Related posts:
- How to Fix Headphones Not Being Detected on iPhone
- Fix Audio Bleeding from Headphones into Microphone on Windows 11/10
- How to Fix iTunes Not Playing Through Headphones on Windows 11
- Effective Solutions for Troubleshooting Headphone Issues on Windows
- Troubleshooting Facetime Microphone Problems on iPhone