Before you start
- Check the headset or microphone is physically connected and not muted.
- If it is Bluetooth, confirm the device is paired and connected before changing Windows settings.
Allow microphone access
Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone. Turn on Microphone access and Let apps access your microphone. For desktop programs, also enable Let desktop apps access your microphone.
Choose the correct input device
Go to Settings > System > Sound. Under Input, choose the microphone you want to use.
Test it in Windows
Select the arrow next to the microphone in Sound settings. Under Input settings choose Start test, speak normally, then Stop test and play the recorded sample.
Check the app itself
In Teams, Discord, Zoom, a browser or another calling app, make sure its own microphone/input setting points to the same device.
Reinstall the audio device if Windows cannot detect it
Open Device Manager > Sound, video and game controllers. Uninstall the affected audio device, restart Windows, then update the driver if necessary.
Microsoft source
This guide is independently written and condensed from current Microsoft Support guidance. If your Windows build differs or the problem persists, use the official source for the full decision tree.
Open Microsoft Support ↗