If Windows 11 has no sound, distorted audio, or a device that stopped working after an update, an audio-driver update may help. Start with Windows Update and your PC manufacturer’s support resources rather than a generic driver-download website.
1. Check Windows Update
- Open Settings.
- Select Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates.
- Install relevant updates and restart if requested.
- Check Advanced options > Optional updates for driver updates when available; optional drivers are not installed automatically.
2. Update the Audio Device in Device Manager
- Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
- Expand Sound, video and game controllers and, when relevant, Audio inputs and outputs.
- Right-click the affected device and select Update driver.
- Follow the prompts to search for or install the appropriate driver.
3. Check the PC Manufacturer
Laptops and prebuilt desktops can use customized audio packages. If Windows Update does not fix the problem, use the support page for the exact PC model. The manufacturer may provide audio, chipset, or related packages designed for that hardware.
If Audio Broke After a Driver Update
Device Manager may offer a driver rollback when a previous driver is still available. You can also use Windows audio troubleshooting and confirm that the correct output device is selected before assuming the driver is the cause. If updating does not help, Microsoft also recommends reinstalling the audio driver through Device Manager as a troubleshooting step.
Avoid Random Driver-Update Utilities
You generally do not need a third-party driver updater. Using Windows Update and the hardware manufacturer’s official support channel reduces the risk of installing an incompatible or unwanted package.
Summary
Check Windows Update first, use Device Manager when appropriate, and use the PC manufacturer’s audio package as the next fallback. Also verify the selected output device and basic audio settings because not every sound problem is caused by a driver.