Forum Discussion
Audio stops working on Windows 10 computer
I have an older Dell laptop 3501 that I updated to Windows 11 a few months ago. Lately when the computer goes idle the screensaver no longer works and the audio stops working, and also if I close the lid. I have to restart the computer each time to get the audio back. I have run the audio troubleshooter several times and the problem remains. As soon as the computer is idle I lose the audio. My windows is up to date, and I do have a screensaver chosen, it is not locked. I did not have this problem until recently, the windows 11 update was working fine until then. I run Windows Defender for virus control.
Is this a glitch in an update that caused this, or do I just blame it on my computer being older? Whatever, it is sure a pain to deal with. Any suggestions, thanks..
3 Replies
If audio stops working after installing a Windows update, incompatible or partially installed audio drivers can prevent Windows audio services from working correctly. Use the steps below to restore sound.
Open Device Manager, right click your audio device/driver, and select Properties.
Switch to Power Management tab, uncheck 'Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power' option.
See if that helps you.
Based on multiple reports from other Dell Inspiron 3501 owners, this is a known conflict between Windows 11 (particularly versions 24H2) and the Cirrus Logic audio driver that Dell uses in your laptop. The driver fails to properly wake the audio hardware when the computer enters power-saving states like sleep or display idle, which explains why you lose audio after the screensaver activates or when you close the lid.
