How to Fix Sound Problems on the Computer

Fixing sound problems on your computer may be less challenging if you follow this main guideline: First, look at the most likely cause of the lack of sound, then gradually move up to defining what the next most likely cause could be. Continue with this type of troubleshooting, listing the simplest of the possible causes to the ones that may be more difficult to solve. This type of strategy may save you time in fixing your sound issue and get you back on the fast track to hearing what there is to be heard.

Instructions

1. From the Taskbar located at the bottom of your computer click once on the "Volume" icon.

2. Uncheck the "Mute" box. If this does not resolve the issue, proceed to step 3.

3. Right click on the "Volume" icon.

4. Select "Open Volume Control."

5. Uncheck all of the boxes next to "Mute" in the Master Volume, Wave, SW Synth (short for synthesizer), CD Volume, Mic Volume, Line Volume and PC Beep selections. If this does not resolve your sound issue, proceed to step 6.

6. Right click on the "Volume Control" icon.

7. Select "Sounds and Audio Devices Properties."

8. Under the "Volume" tab, slide the "Device Volume" indicator to High.

9. Under the "Speaker Settings," click on "Speaker Volume."

10. Slide the "Left" and "Right" volume indicators to "High."

11. Click "OK." If this does not fix your sound issue, proceed to step 12.

12. Right click on the "Volume Control" icon.

13. Select "Sounds and Audio Devices Properties."

14. Go to the "Hardware" tab and select the "Driver" tab.

15. Make sure you are connected to the Internet and then, Click on "Update Driver."

16. After the driver has been updated, Click "OK."

17. Exit.

Tips & Warnings

• If your sound card has malfunctioned and you have decided to purchase a new one, remember that the manufacturer knows best. Select a sound card that is compatible for your type of computer.

• Don't spend excess time trying to beat the sound into your computer. Give it all you got, and if you are still trying to hear what should be heard, consider having a professional technician replace the sound card. Weigh the value of sound. If your computer is as old as Methuselah, donate it for parts, and then buy a second-hand computer with a warranty if money is tight.