Windows 11’s latest September update suddenly decided to remind users that a computer is obviously incomplete without sound. Cumulative update KB5124008 was supposed to bring fixes and new features, but it caused issues with audio output on some systems.
After installing the patch, users will face a complete loss of sound. In some cases, the microphone also stops working, which is especially annoying for owners of gaming headsets, streamers, and people who frequently participate in voice chats. Judging from the problem description, the fault does not affect all computers, but only certain configurations of audio devices and drivers.
Microsoft has confirmed the bug and added it to an updated list of known issues. That said, the problem isn’t necessarily a damaged sound card or sudden battery death from your headphones – the culprit is likely another Windows 11 patch.
If the sound disappears after installing KB5124008, you should check the output device settings, restart the audio service and reinstall the driver. As a last resort, uninstall the update until Microsoft releases a fix. It’s true that you shouldn’t disable updates forever: in addition to problematic patches, your system may receive important security fixes.