Windows 11 USB Audio Devices May Stop Working After September 2026 Updates

Microsoft has confirmed that some USB audio devices may stop working after users install the September 2026 security updates for Windows 11.

The known issue affects systems running Windows 11 version 24H2 or later and appears to be limited to USB Audio Class 1.0 devices. The problem has been linked to the KB5124008 and KB5124012 security updates.

“After you install the September 8, 2026 Windows security updates, some USB Audio Class 1.0 devices may fail to boot or fail to produce audio,” Microsoft said in an update to the Windows Release Health Dashboard.

Windows 11 users report Code 10 audio errors

Affected users have reported seeing the “This device cannot start (Code 10)” error in Device Manager. Other symptoms include missing audio output, unresponsive volume controls, and sound settings that fail to open or respond.

Some users say their USB speakers only stop working when multichannel audio features are enabled, including 3D audio and eight-channel audio modes.

Switching to stereo audio may restore sound

Microsoft has not yet provided an official workaround. However, some affected users have reportedly restored audio by switching their USB audio devices to two-channel or stereo mode.

Users experiencing the problem can also check Device Manager for Code 10 errors, disconnect and reconnect the affected USB audio device, and verify whether changing the device’s audio format resolves the issue.

Microsoft has addressed similar USB audio problems

Microsoft previously addressed a similar problem caused by the KB5050094 optional preview cumulative update released in January 2025. That issue also caused audio playback failures and Code 10 errors on Windows 11 version 24H2 systems using certain USB audio drivers.

Microsoft has encountered other Windows audio compatibility issues in recent years. The company previously lifted a safeguard hold that had blocked Windows 11 version 24H2 upgrades on systems using Dirac audio enhancement software after compatibility problems affected Bluetooth headsets and speakers.

Microsoft also blocked Windows 11 version 24H2 upgrades on devices with incompatible Intel Smart Sound Technology audio drivers because of Blue Screen of Death errors. Another known issue caused game audio to unexpectedly increase to maximum volume when users played sound through a USB DAC.

Other fixes in the September 2026 Windows update

The September 2026 cumulative update also resolved a known issue that erased Windows desktop and mouse settings. Microsoft additionally fixed a bug that prevented Microsoft Teams and Outlook from starting on ARM-based Windows devices.

Microsoft is expected to provide additional information about the USB audio failure, including a permanent fix or official workaround, through the Windows Release Health Dashboard.

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