Microsoft Edge allows users to access microphone functionality for video calls, voice searches, online meetings, AI assistants, and web-based recording tools. However, some users encounter issues where the microphone stops working specifically in Edge, even though it functions correctly in other applications or browsers.
This issue can occur due to blocked browser permissions, incorrect Windows privacy settings, outdated audio drivers, disabled input devices, browser cache corruption, or conflicts caused by extensions and security software. In some cases, websites themselves may also fail to detect the microphone properly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through several effective methods to fix the microphone not working issue in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11.
How to Fix Microphone Not Working in Edge Browser
Before trying advanced troubleshooting methods, make sure your microphone is properly connected and working in other applications such as Voice Recorder or Zoom. It’s also recommended to test the microphone on multiple websites to determine whether the issue is site-specific or browser-wide. Follow the methods below in order for the best results.
1. Allow Microphone Access in Windows 11
Windows privacy settings may block Edge from using the microphone.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to:
Privacy & security > Microphone - Turn on:
- Microphone access
- Let apps access your microphone
- Let desktop apps access your microphone
- Ensure Microsoft Edge is allowed to use the microphone.
After enabling permissions, restart Edge and test the microphone again.
2. Check Edge Site Permissions
The website itself may not have microphone permission enabled.
- Open the affected website in Edge.
- Click the lock icon beside the address bar.
- Select Site permissions.
- Find Microphone and set it to:
Allow - Refresh the webpage.
Incorrect site permissions are one of the most common causes of microphone issues.
3. Select the Correct Input Device
Windows may be using the wrong microphone as the default input device.
- Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar.
- Select Sound settings.
- Under Input, choose the correct microphone device.
- Test the microphone using the built-in input test feature.
Selecting the correct input device ensures Edge uses the intended microphone.
4. Restart Edge Browser
Temporary browser glitches may interfere with microphone access.
- Close all Edge browser windows completely.
- Open Task Manager using Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- End any remaining Edge processes.
- Reopen Edge and test the microphone again.
This refreshes browser processes and permissions.
5. Clear Edge Cache and Cookies
Corrupted browser data can prevent websites from accessing hardware properly.
- Open Edge.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
- Select:
- Cached images and files
- Cookies and site data
- Click Clear now.
- Restart the browser afterward.
After clearing the cache, revisit the website and allow microphone access again.
6. Disable Browser Extensions
Certain extensions may block microphone access or interfere with permissions.
- Open the Edge extensions page.
- Temporarily disable extensions such as:
- Ad blockers
- Privacy tools
- Security extensions
- Restart Edge.
- Retry using the microphone.
If the microphone starts working, re-enable extensions one at a time to identify the conflicting one.
7. Update Audio Drivers
Outdated or corrupted audio drivers can prevent browsers from detecting microphones correctly.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Audio inputs and outputs.
- Right-click your microphone device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
You can also install updated drivers directly from manufacturers like Realtek, Intel, or your PC manufacturer.
8. Update Microsoft Edge
Older Edge versions may contain bugs affecting microphone functionality.
- Open Edge.
- Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
- Navigate to:
Help and feedback > About Microsoft Edge - Install any available updates.
- Restart the browser.
Updated browser versions improve hardware compatibility and permissions handling.
9. Disable Exclusive Audio Control
Some applications may take exclusive control of the microphone.
- Open Sound settings.
- Click More sound settings.
- Go to the Recording tab.
- Select your microphone and click Properties.
- Under the Advanced tab, uncheck:
Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device - Click Apply and restart your PC.
This prevents other apps from blocking microphone access in Edge.
10. Reset Microsoft Edge
If the issue persists, resetting Edge may restore default permissions and configurations.
- Open Edge Settings.
- Navigate to:
Reset settings - Select:
Restore settings to their default values - Confirm the reset.
This removes problematic settings without deleting saved passwords or bookmarks.
Conclusion
Microphone not working in Microsoft Edge is usually caused by blocked permissions, incorrect input settings, outdated drivers, browser cache corruption, or extension conflicts. Fortunately, most users can resolve the issue using simple troubleshooting methods such as enabling microphone permissions, selecting the correct input device, updating drivers, or resetting Edge settings.
By following the solutions outlined above, you should be able to restore microphone functionality in Edge and continue using voice-based websites, video calls, and web apps without interruptions.
