Background noise during calls or recordings can be frustrating—whether it’s the sound of a fan, keyboard clicks, or street noise creeping into your meetings. Thankfully, Windows 11 offers built-in tools and features to help you minimize unwanted noise. In this guide, you’ll learn how to turn on noise suppression in Windows 11 step by step, so your voice always sounds clear and professional.
What Is Noise Suppression in Windows 11?
Noise suppression (also called noise cancellation or noise reduction) is a feature that reduces or removes background noise during voice calls, recordings, or streaming. It works by using AI-based algorithms to detect unwanted sounds and suppress them while keeping your voice clear.
Why Should You Enable Noise Suppression?
-
Clearer calls during meetings (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet)
-
Better audio quality for streaming or gaming
-
Improved microphone recordings
-
Reduced background distractions
Step 1: Open Windows 11 Settings
-
Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
-
Alternatively, click Start > Settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Sound Settings
-
In the left sidebar, click System.
-
Select Sound from the right pane.
Step 3: Select Your Input Device (Microphone)
-
Scroll down to the Input section.
-
Click on your active microphone device (this could be a built-in mic or an external one).
Step 4: Enable Noise Suppression
-
Under Input settings, look for options such as:
-
Audio enhancements
-
Noise suppression
-
Microphone array settings
-
-
Turn on Noise suppression or Enhance audio (depending on your device).
Tip: If you don’t see the option, your microphone driver or app may control this feature.
Step 5: Adjust Noise Suppression Levels (If Available)
Some devices or apps (like Microsoft Teams or Discord) let you choose the level of noise cancellation:
-
Low – Reduces minor noise
-
High – Blocks most background noise
Step 6: Test Your Microphone
-
In the same Input settings page, click Start test or Test your microphone.
-
Speak and check if background noise is reduced.
Alternative Method: Use App-Specific Noise Suppression
Many communication apps in Windows 11 have built-in noise suppression:
-
Microsoft Teams – Settings > Devices > Noise Suppression
-
Discord – Settings > Voice & Video > Krisp Noise Suppression
-
Zoom – Settings > Audio > Suppress Background Noise
How to Turn Off Noise Suppression
If you need natural sound (e.g., when recording music):
-
Go back to the Input settings.
-
Toggle off Noise suppression.
Troubleshooting: Noise Suppression Not Working
1. Update Your Audio Drivers
-
Open Device Manager > Expand Sound, video, and game controllers > Update drivers.
2. Check Your App Settings
Some apps override Windows settings.
3. Use Windows Troubleshooter
-
Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Run Recording Audio.
Does Every PC Support Noise Suppression in Windows 11?
Not always. The availability depends on:
-
Your microphone hardware
-
Installed audio drivers (Realtek, Intel, etc.)
-
Windows 11 version and updates
Conclusion
Turning on noise suppression in Windows 11 can dramatically improve your audio quality, whether for online meetings, gaming, or streaming. Just follow these steps, and you’ll enjoy clearer, distraction-free sound in no time.
FAQs
1. Is noise suppression built into all Windows 11 devices?
No, some devices may require driver updates or third-party apps.
2. Does noise suppression reduce voice quality?
In some cases, aggressive suppression may slightly alter your voice, but it usually improves overall clarity.
3. Can I enable noise suppression for multiple microphones?
Yes, but you must set it individually for each input device.
4. Is noise suppression the same as echo cancellation?
No, echo cancellation removes feedback from speakers, while noise suppression removes background noise.
5. Do I need third-party software for noise suppression?
Not always—Windows 11 has built-in support, but apps like Krisp or NVIDIA Broadcast offer advanced features.