Unable to edit Audio options in Skype for Business

Richard D 0 Reputation points
2026-08-17T15:49:49.75+00:00

I had a user who was dialed into a Skype meeting who had been using a wired headset for communication that suddenly stopped working within Skype. Audio tests on the actual machine and the VPN tunnel are successful but Skype has the Audio device options removed when I attempt to look at any settings.

Microsoft 365 and Office | Skype for Business | Windows
Microsoft 365 and Office | Skype for Business | Windows

A Microsoft communications service that provides communications capabilities across presence, instant messaging, audio/video calling, and an online meeting experience that includes audio, video, and web conferencing.

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  1. Jayden-P 2,845 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-08-17T16:13:20.15+00:00

    Hi @Richard D

    Based on your description, the wired headset appears to be functioning correctly outside of Skype for Business, as audio testing at the Windows level is successful. However, the Audio Device settings are removed within Skype for Business. Are you referring to the Audio device setting like in the screenshot below?

    User's image

    Could you please assist with the following checks?

    1. Test Skype for Business using a different audio device (for example, another headset or the computer's built-in speakers/microphone).
    2. If possible, have another user sign in to Skype for Business on the same workstation and verify whether the Audio Device settings are available.
    3. If available, test the affected user's Skype for Business account on a different workstation.
    4. Sign out of Skype for Business completely, close the application, relaunch it, and test again.

    Please let me know how it goes.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-08-17T15:50:03.84+00:00

    This matches a known Skype for Business 2016 issue.

    When a Skype call is active, Options > Audio Device may not allow microphone or speaker volume changes. The documented fix is to install the December 4, 2018 update (KB4461545) for Skype for Business 2016. After that update is installed, the client shows a message that the change takes effect on the next call.

    For the affected user, use this path:

    1. Confirm the client is Skype for Business 2016.
    2. Install KB4461545.
    3. End the current Skype call/meeting audio session.
    4. Rejoin the meeting or place a new call, because the audio change applies from the next call.
    5. In the Skype for Business main window, open Audio Device Settings and verify the correct device is selected.
      • If separate input/output devices are needed, choose Custom Device.
      • In Speakers, select the correct playback device and use the play icon to test.
    6. If the headset still does not appear, make sure it is connected directly to the computer and that its device software/drivers are installed.
    7. If the device is present but audio still fails, run the Windows audio troubleshooter:
      • Start > type Troubleshoot > Troubleshoot > Playing Audio > Run the troubleshooter.

    If the symptom is specifically that the headset suddenly stopped working during the meeting, also verify Windows did not switch playback or recording devices:

    • In Skype for Business, open Audio Device Settings.
    • Check that the intended headset is selected for microphone and speaker.
    • In Windows, right-click the speaker icon, open Playback devices or Recording devices, and confirm the headset levels are not muted and the correct device is active.
    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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