If some Windows functions aren't working or Windows crashes, use the System File Checker to scan Windows and restore your files. Though the steps below might look complicated at first glance, just follow them in order, step-by-step, and we’ll try to get you back on track. Run the System File Checker tool (SFC.exe) To do this, follow these steps:

Start by running the automated audio troubleshooter in the Get Help app. Get Help automatically runs diagnostics and takes the correct steps to fix most audio issues. Open Get Help. If the Get Help app is unable to resolve your sound or audio issue, try the possible solutions listed:

Describes an issue that in which the audio devices are missing or are displayed as "Not plugged in" after you restart a the computer that is running Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2.

Check troubleshooting history to see if this troubleshooter has been run on your device by going to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > View troubleshooting history on Windows 10, or Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Recommended troubleshooter history on Windows 11 and looking for the following:

Update Audio Drivers: Ensure that your audio drivers are up to date. You can do this through the Device Manager or by visiting the manufacturer's website for your sound card.

Learn how to troubleshoot and fix Bluetooth audio connection issues in Windows 10 and 11.

If you're having trouble with the sound, volume, audio playback, or recording on your Surface—or if you're having trouble with an audio accessory like headphones, external speakers, or a mic—here are some things to try.

If the audio output quality through Bluetooth is low, or the connection frequently drops, affecting audio playback, follow the below troubleshooting steps. If you are using a Windows 11 device, start by running the automated Bluetooth troubleshooter for Audio or volume issues in the Get Help app.

To determine why you received an error message, follow these steps: Click Start. Type or paste the following: %systemroot%\debug in the search box and press Enter. Note: %systemroot% is the path and the folder name where the Windows system files are located.

Fixes an issue in which WIA image processing filter does not start. This issue occurs when you scan from Devices and Printers in Windows 8.1 or Windows Server 2012 R2.