Before running through the troubleshooting steps below, please check your microphone and speakers to be sure they are working with programs other than Zoom.

Did you know that Zoom has built-in capabilities to test your audio? 

You have the ability to test your audio settings before your meeting. This includes testing your microphone and speakers. See the Zoom article "Testing computer or device audio" for directions detailing how to perform these tests. For additional help on specific operating systems and devices, see the following articles:

• Microphone Troubleshooting for Mac OS 10.1.4 Mojave or OS 10.15 Catalina
• Troubleshooting Audio Issues on iOS or Android
• Microphone Troubleshooting for Windows 10
  • You may need to adjust your Microphone Privacy Settings
    1. In the Windows search box, type "Microphone privacy settings" and click to open its settings. 
    2. Switch ON the "Allow apps to access your microphone" toggle.
    3. Scroll down to the "Allow desktop apps to access your microphone" section and switch ON the toggle to enable access for Zoom.
  • You may need to stop using "Hardware acceleration of Audio"
    1. In the Windows search box, type "Sound Control Panel" and click to open it.
    2. From the "Playback" tab of the "Sound" window click on your device, then click "Properties" at the bottom of the window.
    3. When the new window appears, click the "Advanced" tab.
    4. If the setting appears, uncheck "Allow hardware acceleration of audio with this device" and "Enable audio enhancements", then click "OK" ONCE.
    5. In the "Sound" window, click the "Recording" tab.
    6. Select your device, then click "Properties" at the bottom of the window. 
    7. When the new window appears, click the "Advanced" tab.
    8. If the setting appears, uncheck "Allow hardware acceleration of audio with this device" and "Enable audio enhancements", then click "OK" TWICE.

Not sure which audio device you should use with Zoom?

Zoom has a list of supported USB devices for their desktop clients. Please visit Zoom's support article for more information.

Are you hearing an echo in your meetings?

There could be a few reasons for echo or feedback in your meetings. Generally, this is an easy fix. Please visit Zoom's support article covering "Audio Echo In A Meeting" to learn more.

Are your Zoom meetings too noisy?

Zoom provides the ability to hold a meeting from just about anywhere, which is terrific. Unfortunately, some environments can be noisy and distract from the meeting. Zoom desktop clients with versions of at least 5.2.0 can help reduce background noises. See Zoom's "Background noise suppression" article to learn more about enabling this feature and adjusting it to the proper level. 

I still need help!

If you are still experiencing audio issues after trying the solutions above, please submit a ticket to the Technology Service Help Desk by calling 217.244.7000 or by emailing consult@illinois.edu.