Troubleshooting Realtek HD Audio Driver Issues

Audio driver issues are a common problem for PC users. In most cases, the error message will mention something concerning Realtek HD as that is the default audio driver package that comes installed with the Windows OS on modern computers automatically. It allows users to plug in their speakers or headset to the system and be able to hear their favorite songs, movies, clips, etc. immediately.

While the exact issue with the audio driver error might stem from a multitude of different causes such as the driver itself getting corrupted or a potential conflict between two driver packages, one catch-all solution is to simply reinstall the Realtek HD Audio Driver.

To do so, open Device Manager by typing device manager in the search box on the Taskbar and clicking on the top result. Once inside the Device Manager window, expand the 'Sound, video, and the game controllers' section by clicking on the node icon in front of it. Locate 'Realtek High Definition Audio' in the list and right-click it. Choose 'Uninstall device' from the available options and restart your computer.

If Windows doesn't reinstall the sound driver automatically, go to Device Manager once more but this time click on the 'Action' menu. Select 'Scan for hardware changes.' If prompted, agree to reinstall the driver. Hopefully, this has resolved your Realtek HD Audio Driver issues.