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Audio troubleshooting guide

Because silence isn’t always golden

Before you start

  • Make sure you're using the Zoom desktop app or Microsoft Teams app on Windows or Mac if possible (it generally provides the most reliable audio/video controls). 

  • If you’re using Bluetooth headphones (AirPods, etc.), keep in mind they can sometimes cause audio input/output switching issues

  • If you can, move to a stable network (wired/Ethernet is best) and close any apps that may be using your camera, microphone, or bandwidth

I can’t hear anyone

  1. In Zoom, select ^ next to the microphone icon, then choose the correct speaker (headphones vs built-in speakers, depending on what you are using).  Use the same process for Microsoft Teams, next to the microphone icon.

  2. Check your device volume:

    • Confirm your device is not muted

    • Increase your system volume and Zoom volume

  3. In Zoom or Teams, go to Settings → Audio and select Test Speaker. You can also increase the audio output volume if required

  4. If you’re using Bluetooth headphones, disconnect and reconnect them, or switch to wired headphones to test

  5. Leave the meeting and rejoin - last resort!

People can’t hear me (microphone not working)

  1. Confirm you’re unmuted in Zoom or Teams.

  2. Select ^ next to the microphone icon and choose the correct Microphone

  3. Go to to Settings → Audio and select Test Mic. Speak and confirm the input meter moves

  4. Check microphone permissions on your device:

    MacOS

    • System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone

    • Make sure Zoom is enabled

    Windows

    • Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone

    • Turn on microphone access and ensure Zoom is allowed

    Browser (if joining via web)

    • In your browser, allow microphone access for Zoom. You'll find this option to the left of the URL when you on the Zoom call

  5. Quit Zoom completely and reopen it, then rejoin the meeting

I hear echos or feedback

Echo is usually caused by audio coming from speakers and re-entering a microphone.

  1. Use headphones (recommended)

  2. If you joined from more than one device in the same room, mute audio on one of them or leave the meeting on the extra device

  3. Select ^ next to the microphone icon and confirm the correct speaker and microphone are selected

  4. Check the participant list. If someone’s audio indicator is lighting up (green) while they’re not speaking, their microphone may be picking up background sound and causing feedback. You can politely ask them to mute until they’re ready to contribute