Video audio randomly goes to mute for various lengths of time (usually 3 - 6 seconds) on different platforms.

1Individual2 0 Reputation points
2026-07-15T16:15:28.95+00:00

I have seen the issue described here in early 2025, but the problem exits on multiple platforms (cell phone (android) with Verizon phone service using Chrome; it happens on my desktop (Dell) using Windows 7, so I do not see this as being any kind of hardware problem because it appears over so many different technologies that it appears more like a virus. I have tried recommendations to unchek various settings in the audio control with no affect on this "bug". When I watch a YouTube video, the video always plays fine. What happens is at some point during the play the audio is lost or muted for a short period. And it can happen when important information is being given. I learned to keep the cursor following the progress line and when the audio is lost, I just click a short distance back (5 seconds estimate) and the lost audio plays. I have to continue this process the whole video to recover other muted audio sections. If someone has discovered a solution that fits this multi-platform problem, I would love to hear it.

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Music, photos, and video
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  1. Emma1-N 12,450 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-07-15T23:26:19.4266667+00:00

    Welcome 1Individual2,

    I understand how frustrating it can be when audio randomly cuts out for a few seconds during video playback, and that the issue occurs across multiple devices and platforms. 

    Before proceeding, could you please clarify:           

    • Does this happen only with YouTube videos, or also with videos on other websites and streaming services? 
    • When the audio cuts out, are you using Bluetooth audio devices, wired speakers/headphones, or the device's built-in speakers? 

    Since Windows 7 has been EOS since January 14, 2020, you can still try these workarounds instead.  

    Option 1: Test a different network connection  

    • Try another Wi-Fi network or mobile data connection 
    • Check whether the audio interruptions still occur 

    Option 2: Disable browser extensions  

    • Temporarily disable ad blockers, audio enhancers, and video-related extensions 
    • Test video playback again 

    Option 3: Clear the browser cache  

    • Clear cached files and cookies 
    • Restart the browser and test again 

    Option 4: Check audio enhancements  

    • Open Control Panel > Sound 
    • Select the playback device and disable any audio enhancements if available 

    Option 5: Update audio and network drivers  

    • Install the latest audio and network adapter drivers from the device manufacturer's website. 
    • Restart the device after installation. 

    I hope the steps above help you deal with your issue.  

    If the answer is helpful, please click "Yes". If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment".   

    Note: Please follow the steps in our documentation to enable e-mail notifications if you want to receive the related email notification for this thread.  

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