My mic isnt working, i have volume at 100 but when i try to test it, it says its at 0%, help !!

Hi Edouard Chalifour,

Thanks for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A Forum. I understand that you're facing issue with Windows 11 microphone.

Please try the steps below in order:

1, Make sure the correct mic is selected (most common cause)

Even if volume is at 100%, Windows may be listening to the wrong device.

1. Go to Settings > System > Sound
2. Under Input, click the dropdown and select the correct microphone (USB headset mic, headset mic, webcam mic, etc.)
3. Click Start test again and speak

If it still stays at 0%, continue.

2, Check Input volume AND enhancement settings

1. In Settings > System > Sound
2. Click your microphone device
3. Make sure:

• Input volume = 100
• Audio enhancements > set to Off
• Format > try another option (for example, 16‑bit 44100 Hz > Apply)

Retry the mic test.

3, Allow microphone access

Windows may be blocking it system‑wide.

1. Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone
2. Make sure ALL of these are On:
   • Microphone access
   • Let apps access your microphone
   • Let desktop apps access your microphone

Then restart the test.

4, Check classic Sound Control Panel

This catches issues Settings sometimes misses.

1. Press Win + R
2. Type mmsys.cpl
3. Go to the Recording tab
4. Make sure your microphone:

• Is Enabled
• Has a green checkmark (Default Device)
• Speak and see if the green bars move

If bars do NOT move > Windows is not receiving audio.

5, Disable “Exclusive mode”

1. In Recording > Microphone > Properties
2. Go to Advanced
3. Uncheck "Allow applications to take exclusive control"
4. Click Apply

6, Check Device Manager

1. Press Win + X > Device Manager
2. Expand Audio inputs and outputs
3. Right‑click your microphone > Uninstall device
4. Restart Windows (driver will reinstall automatically)

If this is a gaming headset:

• Make sure it is fully plugged in
• If it has USB + 3.5mm combo, try USB only
• If it has a mute button, check that it’s not muted
• Try another USB port

The initial response might not address the problem. So, if your problem persists or you need any assistance, feel free to ask me by clicking "Add Comment" or "Post Answer" if you cannot add comment. This helps me can read your follow up. Thanks for your effort. 

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