Microphone Not Working in Windows

Check Privacy settings

Settings → Privacy → Microphone → ensure "Allow apps to access your microphone" is On, and that the specific app (Discord, Teams, browser) is in the allowed list.

Set as default device

Right-click the speaker icon → Sounds → Recording tab. Right-click your mic → Set as Default Device AND Set as Default Communication Device. Both must be set.

Check levels

Right-click your mic → Properties → Levels tab. Ensure the volume is at 80–100 and the mic icon is not muted (no red X).

Driver reinstall

Device Manager → Audio inputs and outputs → right-click the microphone → Uninstall device → reboot. Also check under Sound, video and game controllers for the audio controller.

USB microphone

Try a different USB port. Avoid USB hubs for microphones — power delivery inconsistency causes recognition failures. The mic may also need its own dedicated driver from the manufacturer.