Windows sound not working - can't hear audio - can't play audio

In this post, I describe two ways to fix an issue with Windows sound whereby either audio cannot be played or audio is playing but cannot be heard.

Issue

This issue occurs in both Windows 10 and Windows 11.  When it occurs, I either cannot play audio or, when I do play audio, the sound cannot be heard.

There are two resolutions:

Resolution 1

One way I have fixed this issue is by restarting the Windows Audio service:

1. Open Services (search for "services" in the Start menu)

2. Click in the right hand panel and press W to skip down to the services that start with W

3. Right click Windows Audio then select Restart

My playing audio was now audible.

Resolution 2

If the sound icon in the taskbar has a red cross next to it:

Either follow the steps above and, if the Windows Audio service is stopped, start it

Or, try right clicking the sound icon in the taskbar and selecting Troubleshoot sound problems.

If the Windows Audio service won't start and Troubleshoot sound problems doesn't work, it could be an issue with the sound device or driver which will need further investigation.