Fix: The Wizard could not start microphone in Windows 10

by Matthew Adams

Windows & Software Expert

May 5, 2020

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Some users have discussed a Wizard could not start a microphone error on Microsoft’s support forum. When some users click Set up microphone in Windows, a The Wizard could not start microphone error message pops up.

Consequently, users can’t utilize the Microphone Setup Wizard when that issue arises.

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This is how you can fix the Wizard could not start microphone error

1. Run the Recording Audio troubleshooter

First, check out the Recording Audio troubleshooter.

1. Click the Type here to search taskbar button to open Windows 10’s search box.
2. Type troubleshoot in the Type here to search box.
3. Click Troubleshoot settings in the search utility to open Settings as in the snapshot directly below.
   
4. Select the Recording Audio troubleshooter in Settings, and click the Run the troubleshooter button.
5. Then select the Microphone option.
   
6. Click the Next button.
7. Click Apply Fix if the troubleshooter provides resolution.

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2. Turn on the Allow apps to access your microphone setting

Turning on the Allow apps to access your microphone setting is among the most widely confirmed fixes for the Wizard could not start microphone error.

1. To do that, open Windows’ search box.
2. Type in microphone as the search keyword.
3. Click Microphone privacy settings to open the window in the snapshot directly below.
   
4. Toggle the Allow apps to access your microphone option on if it’s off.
5. Thereafter, restart Windows.

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3. Update the sound card driver

The Wizard could not start microphone error can also be due to incompatible or antiquated sound or microphone drivers.

1. To scan drivers, add Driver Booster to Windows by clicking Free Download on the software’s homepage.
2. Install Driver Booster 7 with the downloaded setup wizard.
3. Then open Driver Booster 7, which will start scanning when launched.
4. Select microphone and sound card devices listed by the scan.
5. Click Update Now to update drivers for selected devices.

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4. Reinstall the microphone driver

Alternatively, you could try reinstalling the microphone driver.

1. To do so, launch Run with the Windows key + R hotkey.
2. Type devmgmt.msc in the Open box and click OK to open Device Manager.
   
3. Double-click Audio inputs and outputs to expand devices for that category.
4. Right-click the microphone listed there and select Uninstall device.
5. Restart Windows after uninstalling the driver for microphone.
   • After restarting, Windows will initiate an installation service to reinstall a microphone driver.

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5. Check if the microphone is enabled

Some users might need to enable their microphones.

1. To do that, right-click the Speakers icon and select Open sound settings.
2. Scroll down to Related Settings.
3. Click Sound Control Panel to open the Sound window.
4. Select the Recording tab shown directly below.
   
5. Right-click the microphone you need enabled and select Enable.
6. Press the Set as default button to change the selected microphone to be the default one.
7. Click the Apply option.
8. Click OK to exit the Sound window.

A lot of users have confirmed those resolutions to fix the Wizard could not start microphone error. With the error fixed, you can configure your microphone with Microphone Setup Wizard.

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FAQ: Learn more about Windows 10 microphones

• Does Windows 10 have a built-in microphone?

Yes, as long as your device has a microphone, then Windows 10 will also have the necessary driver for it. However, a built-in microphone can’t be compared to professional microphones in terms of quality.

• Can my browser access my microphone?

Yes, many VoIP apps that have web clients will only work if you allow your browser to access your microphone.