Step 1: Restart Audio Services

Open services.msc

• Find these services:

  • Windows Audio

  • Windows Audio Endpoint Builder

• Right-click each → Restart

If unavailable, open Device Manager, and:

• Right-click your audio device → Disable → Enable again

Step 2: Disable Audio Driver Power Saving

• Open Device Manager > Sound, video and game controllers

• Double-click your sound card → Power Management tab (if available)

• Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power

If using Realtek or USB audio device:

• Do the same under Universal Serial Bus controllers

Step 3: Change Default Format

• Right-click volume icon → Sounds > Playback

• Select your device → Properties > Advanced

• Try different sample rates like 44100 Hz, 48000 Hz

• Uncheck Allow applications to take exclusive control

Step 4: Update or Roll Back Driver

Sometimes Windows auto-updates a faulty driver.

• Go to Device Manager → Audio device → Properties > Driver

• Click Roll Back Driver if available, or Update Driver manually from manufacturer site.