Fix Windows 10 Audio Services Not Running Error

Dec. 18, 2024 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows Driver Solutions

windows-10-audio-service-not-running

The "Audio Service Not Running" issue is common in Windows 10. This article offers several methods to fix the error and restore audio functionality.

1. Check Audio Drivers

Outdated or corrupted audio drivers may cause the "Audio Service Not Running" issue in Windows 10. Regularly checking for driver updates can effectively prevent this problem. It is recommended to use Driver Talent to automatically detect and update drivers, saving time and avoiding the risk of downloading or installing incorrect drivers.

Download Driver Talent

Click the download button to get the latest version of Driver Talent, install it, and open the software. Click "Scan".
After the scan is complete, it will show which drivers are missing or need updating. Find the audio driver in the results list and click the "Download" button.

driver-update

Once the update is complete, restart your computer to ensure the updated driver works properly.

2. Restart Audio Services

Press Win + R, type "services.msc", and then press Enter to open the "Services" window.

In the service list, locate "Windows Audio".

Right-click Windows Audio and select "Restart".

restart-audio-services

If the service is not running, you can select "Start" to ensure the audio service is active.

Also, check the "Windows Audio Endpoint Builder" service and ensure it is running.

Close the window and check if audio has been restored.

3. Check Audio Settings

Right-click the volume icon in the lower-right corner of the taskbar and select "Open Sound Settings".

In Sound Settings, ensure that the "Output Device" is set to the correct device (e.g., speakers or headphones).

check-audio-settings

Ensure the volume is not muted, and adjust the volume to an appropriate level.

Check the "Volume Mixer" to confirm that no applications or system sounds are muted.

In the "Control Panel" > "Sound" section, go to the "Playback Devices" tab and ensure the audio device is not disabled and is set as the default device.

4. Run Windows Audio Troubleshooter

Click the Start Menu, select "Settings".

In the Settings window, click "Update & Security", then select "Troubleshoot".

Click "Additional Troubleshooters", find "Playing Audio", and then click "Run the Troubleshooter".

run-windows-audio-troubleshooter

The system will automatically scan for audio issues and provide repair suggestions. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.

Once completed, restart your computer and check if the audio issue is resolved.

5. Update Your Operating System

Open Settings, click "Update & Security", and then select "Windows Update".

Click "Check for Updates", and the system will automatically search for and download available updates.

click-check-for-updates

If updates are found, click "Install", and follow the instructions to complete the installation process.

Once the installation is complete, restart your computer and check if the audio service has been restored.