How to Fix Realtek Audio RPC Error: No Sound on Windows 11 [2025 Guide]

How to Fix Realtek Audio RPC Error: No Sound on Windows 11 [2025 Guide]

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What Is the RPC Audio Error?

The Realtek Audio RPC (Remote Procedure Call) error on Windows 11 typically appears when sound suddenly stops working, and the message “Audio service is not running” or similar is displayed.

This error often results from a failure in the communication between core Windows services and the audio driver.

Main Causes

Since the release of Windows 11 version 24H2, many users have experienced audio problems due to automatic Realtek driver updates.

Fix 1: Restart Audio Services

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc and press Enter.
2. Find these services:
   • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
   • Windows Audio
   • Windows Audio Endpoint Builder
3. Right-click each service and select Restart or Start.

Fix 2: Reinstall Realtek Audio Driver

1. Right-click the Start button and open Device Manager.
2. Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
3. Right-click Realtek Audio and select Uninstall device.
4. Restart your PC — the driver will reinstall automatically.

If not, you can download the latest driver manually from the Realtek official website.

Fix 3: Roll Back to a Stable Driver

1. Open Device Manager → Right-click Realtek Audio → Properties
2. Go to the Driver tab → Click Roll Back Driver

This is effective when a recent update causes the issue.

Fix 4: Run SFC and DISM Repair Commands

sfc /scannowDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Run these in an Administrator Command Prompt to repair corrupted system files.

Fix 5: Use wushowhide.diagcab to Block Driver Updates

Use this hidden Microsoft tool to prevent Realtek drivers from being auto-updated:

▶ Download wushowhide.diagcab

Bonus Fix: Disable Sound Enhancements

1. Right-click the speaker icon → Sound settings → Playback tab
2. Select your output device → Properties → Enhancements tab
3. Check Disable all sound effects or Disable all enhancements

Bonus Fix: Enable Onboard Audio in BIOS

If no audio devices appear, enter BIOS/UEFI and check if onboard audio is disabled.

Go to Advanced → Integrated Peripherals, and ensure HD Audio or Azalia Audio is set to Enabled. Save and exit BIOS.

Bonus Fix: Offline Driver Installation

1. Disconnect your PC from the internet (Wi-Fi and LAN).
2. Install the desired Realtek driver manually while offline.
3. Use wushowhide.diagcab to block further updates.
4. Reconnect to the internet after configuration.

This avoids Windows automatically reinstalling the problematic driver.

Advanced Tip: Try a Different User Profile

Create a temporary local user account. If the sound works there, your original account may have corrupt settings.

Alternative Solution: Use a USB Audio Adapter

If none of the fixes above solve the problem — or if the Realtek Audio Console constantly crashes — you may want to switch to a USB DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) or amplifier. These external sound devices bypass the internal audio chip and provide cleaner, more powerful sound through USB connection.

FAQ

Q1. My Realtek Audio doesn’t show up in Device Manager. What should I do?
Check BIOS to ensure onboard audio is enabled. In Device Manager, click View → Show hidden devices.

Q2. Only HDMI or Bluetooth sound works. Why?
Go to Sound settings and make sure the default output device is set to Speakers (Realtek).

Summary

Some fixes may work instantly, while others require a combination. If your audio issues persist, using a USB DAC or sound card may offer the most stable and high-quality solution.

💡 Looking for more tips? Check out our full list of Windows Help Guides.

タグ: Realtek Audio, Windows 11 troubleshooting, No Sound, Fix audio driver, RPC Error, USB DAC, Realtek Driver Problems