Check Privacy Permissions:

Settings > Privacy > Microphone. Ensure microphone access is enabled. Check that the specific app has permission.

Select Correct Input Device:

Settings > Sound > Input. Choose the correct microphone. Many systems have multiple input options that cause confusion.

Adjust Input Volume:

In Sound settings, check input volume isn't too low. Test microphone and watch the input level indicator.

Update Audio Driver:

Device Manager > Audio inputs and outputs > Update driver. Or uninstall and restart for automatic reinstallation.

Run Audio Troubleshooter:

Settings > Troubleshoot > Recording Audio. Windows attempts automatic diagnosis and repair.

Check Physical Connection:

For external mics: try different USB port. Test microphone on another device. Verify cable isn't damaged.

Conclusion:

Privacy permissions are the most common issue. Selecting wrong input device is frequently overlooked. Most problems are software-related.