Quick fix: no sound, or people can't hear me on video calls. How do I fix it?

Sound problems are usually a setting, not a broken part.

1. Check the obvious: volume turned up and not muted. Many keyboards have a mute key with a speaker icon. Speakers need to be on and plugged in.
2. Pick the right output. On Windows, click the speaker icon near the clock and choose the correct speakers or headset. On a Mac, open System Settings, then Sound, then Output.
3. Unplug and replug headphones or a headset. For Bluetooth, turn it off and on, and check it's connected to this computer and not your phone.
4. For video calls, check the app's own audio settings. Make sure it uses the right microphone and that you aren't muted inside the call.
5. Give the app permission to use the microphone. On Windows, open Settings, then Privacy and security, then Microphone. On a Mac, open System Settings, then Privacy and Security, then Microphone. Turn it on for your video call app.
6. Restart the computer and rejoin the call.

Stop and get help if nothing makes sound after all of this, you hear crackling or popping, or a headset works on other devices but not this one.

Still stuck? Post your make, model and what you see in this topic, or send me a request for a free assessment.