How to Fix Windows 10 'Audio Device is Disabled' Issue
Some Windows 10 users may face the "Audio Device is Disabled" issue. This guide offers effective solutions to restore audio functionality.
1. Check for Audio Driver Updates
Outdated or corrupted audio drivers are a common cause of the "Audio Device is Disabled" issue. Updating the audio driver may resolve the problem. Using Driver Sentry for automatic detection and updates is recommended to save time and avoid incorrect driver installations.
Download the latest version of Driver Sentry, install the software, and open it. Click "Scan".
After the scan, check the results for uninstalled or outdated drivers. Locate the audio driver and click "Upgrade".
Restart your computer after the update to ensure the new driver works properly.
2. Restart Audio Services
Press Win + R, type "services.msc", and press Enter.
In the list of services, locate "Windows Audio" and "Windows Audio Endpoint Builder".
Right-click Windows Audio and select "Restart".
Repeat the process for Windows Audio Endpoint Builder.
Ensure both services are set to Automatic startup:
Right-click the service, select "Properties", and set "Startup type" to "Automatic", then click "OK".
3. Check Hardware Connections
Ensure the headphone or speaker plug is firmly inserted into the audio port.
Switch between the front and rear audio ports to rule out port issues.
Test other headphones or speakers to determine if the issue lies with the device.
For USB audio devices, try using a different USB port to rule out port faults.
4. Enable Disabled Audio Devices
Press Win + R, type "devmgmt.msc", and press Enter to open Device Manager.
Expand "Sound, video, and game controllers".
Locate the disabled audio device, right-click it, and select "Enable Device".
To quickly identify disabled devices, look for a black downward arrow next to the device name.
5. Run the Audio Troubleshooter
Press Win + I to open Settings, then navigate to "Update & Security" > "Troubleshoot".
Under "Additional Troubleshooters", find "Playing Audio" and click "Run the troubleshooter".
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process. The system will detect and attempt to fix the issue automatically.
Restart your computer and check if the audio is restored.
6. Perform a System Restore
Press Win + S, search for "Create a restore point", and open the System Properties window.
Under the "System Protection" tab, click "System Restore".
Follow the System Restore wizard and select a restore point from a time before the audio issue occurred.
Complete the process as prompted. Your system will restart and revert to the selected restore point.
Check if the audio device is functioning properly after the restoration.
These steps can help resolve the "Audio Device is Disabled" issue on Windows 10. If the problem continues, seek professional technical support.
See also:
Fix Windows 10 Bad Image Error
Easy Ways to Fix the kernelbase.dll Error
