Updating audio drivers in Windows 10 helps resolve crackling sound, no device output, and microphone issues. This guide walks through safe and reliable methods that work across different hardware brands.
Follow the steps below in order, especially when troubleshooting after Windows updates or new hardware installations.
| Driver Source | Reliability | Ease of Install | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows Update | High, signed by Microsoft | Very Easy | Standard integrated audio |
| Device Manager Rollback | High, previous known driver | Easy | Reverting recent bad updates |
| Manufacturer Support Site | Very High, latest features | Moderate | New laptops and sound cards |
| Third-Party Driver Tools | Variable, verify source | Easy | Users with limited driver knowledge |
Check current driver status in Device Manager
Device Manager shows whether your audio driver is installed correctly or has warning symbols.
Use this section to confirm the driver version and basic health before trying updates.
Follow the steps carefully to avoid selecting the wrong device on systems with multiple audio endpoints.
How to open Device Manager
Press Windows + X and choose Device Manager from the menu. Alternatively, search for Device Manager in the Start menu.
Locate the audio controller
Expand the Sound, video and game controllers section to see your audio driver. Right-click the device to view properties, update drivers, or roll back to a previous version.
Update audio drivers via Windows Update
Windows Update often provides stable, signed audio drivers that work well with most hardware configurations.
This method is safe for general users and does not require downloading files from external websites.
Keep your system up to date to receive security fixes along with driver improvements.
Check for updates
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, then select Check for updates. Install any pending updates and restart if prompted.
Verify the driver after update
Once updated, open Device Manager again and confirm that the audio device shows no warning icons and displays the updated driver version.
Update audio drivers from the manufacturer site
For laptops and motherboards, the manufacturer’s support page offers the latest audio drivers tailored to your exact model.
This approach is recommended when Windows Update does not provide the newest features or fixes.
Always download drivers from the official support site to avoid unwanted adware or incorrect versions.
Find your exact model
Locate the product name and model number on a label or in system information. Use this to navigate to the correct support page.
Download and install
Download the audio driver package, run the installer, and follow on-screen steps. Restart your PC to complete the installation and confirm functionality in Sound settings.
Use Device Manager to rollback or update driver
Device Manager includes quick options to update, disable, or roll back audio drivers without external tools.
This is helpful if a recent update caused crackling, no sound, or microphone failure.
Keep a note of the driver version before rolling back so you can track changes if further issues appear.
Rollback to a previous driver
In Device Manager, right-click the audio device, choose Properties, then the Driver tab. Select Roll Back Driver if the option is available.
Update driver manually
Choose Update driver and then Browse my computer for drivers if you have downloaded a driver package from the manufacturer site.
Key points and recommendations for managing Windows 10 audio drivers
- Check Device Manager first to identify issues and current driver version.
- Prefer Windows Update for general users seeking stability and security.
- Download audio drivers from the official manufacturer support site for the latest features.
- Use rollback immediately after a problematic update to restore previous working state.
- Verify digital signatures to ensure the driver is authentic and safe.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why do my speakers crackle after a Windows update
Windows Update may install a generic or slightly incompatible driver. Roll back to the previous driver or download the manufacturer-approved audio driver from the support site.
My microphone does not work in Windows 10, how can I fix the driver
Open Device Manager, expand Audio inputs and outputs, right-click the microphone device, and update the driver. If that does not help, uninstall the device and restart Windows to let it reinstall the driver automatically.
Should I use third-party driver updater tools for audio
Use official manufacturer drivers when possible, as third-party tools can offer outdated or modified versions. If you choose a tool, verify its reputation and ensure it does not bundle unwanted software.
How do I know if my audio driver is correctly signed
In Device Manager, open the driver properties and check the Driver tab. A digitally signed driver shows the publisher and indicates that Windows has verified the signature.