Windows Audio not running

Question

I restarted my laptop yesterday (30/10/24) and my Windows Audio is no longer running. I have tried all the methods stated by YouTube including rebooting to the previous date everything worked and still no joy.

I just keep getting 'One or more audio service isn't running' under Sound settings. I have been in Services and Windows Audio does not allow me to restart under Local Computer. I have tried to override this as mentioned on Windows Support under Register Editor and again still no joy. I just get 'Windows could not start the Windows Audio service on Local Computer. Error 0x80070005: Access is denied'. Please can someone help?

This is Windows 10 and I just want to keep this laptop for a few months prior to the Windows 11 upgrade. You used to be able to give Windows Support a call. I am at the end of my tether after a whole day of trying to navigate this issue.

Answer 1

1. Check User Permissions

The "Access is denied" error can indicate a permissions issue. Make sure you are logged in as an administrator. If you are, try the following:

Run Services as Administrator:

1. Press Windows + R, type "services.msc", and hit Enter.
2. In the Services window, find Windows Audio.
3. Right-click and select Properties.
4. Go to the Log On tab and ensure it is set to "Local System account".
5. Check Dependencies

Make sure that the necessary services are running:

1. In the Services window, find Windows Audio.
2. Right-click and select Properties.
3. Go to the Dependencies tab and make sure that all listed services (like Remote Procedure Call (RPC) and Windows Audio Endpoint Builder) are running.
4. Use Command Prompt to Restart Audio Services

Try restarting the services using Command Prompt:

1. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Run the following commands one at a time:

   
      net stop audiosrv
   
      net stop AudioEndpointBuilder
   
      net start AudioEndpointBuilder
   
      net start audiosrv
   
   

3. Check Windows Update

Sometimes updates can cause issues. Make sure your Windows is up to date:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.
2. Run System File Checker

Corrupted system files can cause issues with services:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run:

   
      sfc /scannow
   
   

3. Reinstall Audio Drivers

Sometimes reinstalling the audio drivers can fix issues:

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
3. Right-click your audio device and select Uninstall device.
4. Restart your laptop; Windows should automatically reinstall the drivers.
5. Check for Malware

Malware can interfere with services. Run a full scan using Windows Defender or any other reputable antivirus software.

8. Restore Your System

If the issue persists, consider performing a system restore to a point when everything was working:

1. Search for Create a restore point in the Start menu.
2. Click System Restore and follow the prompts.

If none of these solutions work, you might consider seeking assistance from a professional or a tech support forum for more personalized help.

Answer 2

Hello,

See if this fix helps you:

https://www.kapilarya.com/fix-error-0x80070005-access-is-denied-for-services-in-windows-10

Let us know if this helps!

Note: Included link in this reply refers to blog post by a trusted Microsoft MVP.