Headphones are essential and useful devices on our computers. Nowadays, they support two common connection types suitable for various computers and laptops. However, during usage, users may encounter issues related to headphones. In this article, Software Tips will guide you on how to troubleshoot the problem of a laptop not recognizing headphones.

1. Check Drivers on Your Computer
Not every peripheral device connected to a computer can be immediately usable. To use external peripherals, you need drivers to help them receive signals.
Step 1: Type This PC in the search bar of the Start Menu and select Manage.

Step 2: Next, choose Device Manager and expand the Sound, video and game controllers section.

Step 3: Then, right-click on each sub-item and choose Uninstall Device.

Step 4: After completing the Uninstall Device process, right-click on Sound, video and game controllers and select Scan for hardware changes.

Step 5: After reinstalling the drivers for your computer, you can opt for Update driver once again to ensure updating to the latest version for certainty.

2. Clean the connection ports
The headphone port on a laptop is a plug-in type, making it susceptible to dust buildup inside, causing the connecting pins to lose signal reception. Cleaning the connection ports is a simple task.
Preparation:
- Cotton swab
- 90-degree alcohol (for quick drying)
Use alcohol to moisten the cotton swab and clean the headphone connection port on your laptop. Rotate the cotton swab to ensure dirt adheres to it while cleaning. Avoid inserting the swab directly inside, as it may push dirt deeper. After cleaning, wait for about 10-15 minutes for the alcohol to evaporate before use.
3. Utilize the self-repair feature
Windows 10 operating system includes a highly useful feature: the automatic error correction feature. This applies to audio issues as well. You can use this automatic error correction feature to swiftly address problems.
Step 1: Right-click on the sound icon, then choose Troubleshoot sound problems.

Step 2: The software will automatically scan all audio-related input devices and proceed to fix any issues. Click Next to let the software handle it automatically.

4. Check the audio source
Sometimes, the issue of headphones not being recognized on your laptop is due to a misjudgment, as the computer's source system may not be signaling to the headphones.
Step 1: Right-click on the sound icon and choose Open Volume Mixer.

Step 2: Here, monitor the audio sources on your computer. If there is an audio source, you'll see the sound bar jumping. If someone has muted the sound, drag the volume slider up to enable it.

5. Restart your computer
If the above methods don't resolve the issue of your computer not recognizing headphones, it's necessary to restart your computer to check. During the use of the Windows operating system, conflicts between drivers may occur, causing them to be unstable or lose signal. Give restarting your computer a try.

So, the Software Trick has guided you on fixing the issue of your Laptop not recognizing headphones. If none of the methods work for you, there's an 80% chance that your computer has a faulty Soundcard or 3.5mm jack. In such cases, take your laptop to a service center for replacement.