If you’re having trouble getting your wired headphones to work on your Windows 11 computer, you’re not alone. This issue has affected many users, and it can be frustrating when you can’t listen to music or participate in an online meeting. Here are five fixes to try if Windows 11 won’t recognize your wired headphones.

1. Check the Connections

The first step is to check the connections. Make sure that the headphone jack is properly plugged into the correct port on your computer. If your headphones have a volume control, ensure that it’s turned up. Also, ensure that your headphones are switched on if they have a power button. Sometimes, the issue can be as simple as a loose connection, so it’s a good idea to check before moving on to other potential fixes.

2. Restart Your Computer

If checking the connections doesn’t solve the problem, try restarting your computer. Sometimes, a simple restart can fix issues related to software updates or configuration changes. Restarting your computer can also help in clearing cache and temporary files.

3. Update Your Audio Drivers

The issue with your wired headphones not being recognized could be that your audio drivers are outdated or missing. You can check this by going to the Device Manager, searching for “Audio Inputs and Outputs,’ and expanding the menus. If you see a yellow notification symbol next to your headphone device, you may need to update your drivers to resolve the issue.

4. Run the Audio Troubleshooter

Windows 11 comes with a built-in audio troubleshooter feature that can fix common audio problems. To run the audio troubleshooter, go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Playing audio. This troubleshooter will search for the issue and provide solutions.

5. Disable Audio Enhancements

Lastly, if you’ve tried all of the above fixes and your wired headphones still won’t be recognized by Windows 11, try disabling audio enhancements. This solution has worked for many users who have faced similar issues. To disable audio enhancements, go to the Sound settings > click on the audio device > Properties > Enhancements > check the “Disable all enhancements” option.

In conclusion, the five fixes outlined above should help you resolve the issue of your wired headphones not being recognized by Windows 11. Remember to check your connections, restart your computer, update your audio drivers, run the audio troubleshooter, and disable audio enhancements. If none of these fixes work, you may need to contact customer support for further assistance.