Skype is a popular communication tool used by millions worldwide. Sometimes, users encounter an issue where notification sounds stop working on Windows 11. This can cause missed calls and messages, affecting communication.
Fixing notification sounds in Skype is usually straightforward. Most fixes involve simple checks and adjustments in your system and app settings.
In this guide, we will walk you through detailed, easy-to-follow steps to resolve Skype notification sound problems on Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners.
By following these solutions, you should be able to hear Skype notifications again and stay connected without interruptions.
Quick Note: Basic Checks Before You Start
- Check Volume: Make sure your computer’s volume is turned up and not muted.
- Test Other Sounds: Play music or a video to confirm your speakers or headphones work properly.
- Skype Status: Ensure Skype is running and you are signed in.
- Do Not Disturb Mode: Verify that Skype or Windows is not set to “Do Not Disturb” or Focus mode, which can silence notifications.
Step 1: Verify Skype Notification Settings
Skype has its own notification settings that control sounds. If these are off, you won’t hear any alerts.
- Open Skype on your Windows 11 PC.
- Click on your profile picture in the upper-left corner.
- Select Settings from the menu.
- Go to the Notifications tab.
- Ensure the toggle for Notification sounds is turned on.
- Also, check that specific notifications like messages and calls have sounds enabled.
Turning on these settings allows Skype to send audible alerts for incoming events.
Step 2: Check Windows 11 Sound Settings for Skype
Windows controls how apps use sound. Sometimes, Skype’s sound output might be muted or set to a different device.
- Right-click the Speaker icon on the taskbar (bottom-right corner).
- Select Open Volume mixer.
- Look for Skype in the list of apps.
- Make sure Skype’s volume slider is not at the bottom (muted).
- If you use multiple audio devices, confirm Skype is playing through the correct one.
This step ensures that Windows allows Skype to play sounds and that the volume is adequate.
Step 3: Confirm Focus Assist and Notification Settings in Windows
Windows 11 includes Focus Assist, which can block notifications during certain times or activities.
- Click on the Start button and select Settings.
- Go to System > Focus assist.
- Check if Focus Assist is set to Off. If it’s on Priority only or Alarms only, notifications might be suppressed.
- If you want notifications always, choose Off.
- Next, go to Settings > System > Notifications.
- Scroll through the list and find Skype.
- Make sure notifications for Skype are enabled and set to play sounds.
Disabling Focus Assist and enabling notifications ensures Windows delivers Skype’s alert sounds.
Step 4: Update Skype and Windows
Outdated software can cause bugs, including notification issues.
- Update Skype: Open Microsoft Store, click on your profile, go to Downloads and updates, and install any available Skype updates.
- Update Windows 11: Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates. Install any that are pending.
Keeping both Skype and Windows up to date helps fix known bugs and improves compatibility.
Step 5: Restart Skype and Your PC
Sometimes, a simple restart solves temporary glitches.
- Close Skype completely by right-clicking its icon in the taskbar and choosing Close window.
- Open Task Manager (press
Ctrl + Shift + Esc), and under the Processes tab, check if Skype is still running. If yes, select it and click End task. - Restart your computer to refresh system processes.
- Open Skype again and test notifications.
Restarting clears temporary issues that might block notification sounds.
Alternative Method: Use Skype Web
If the desktop app continues to have sound problems, try using Skype on your browser as a temporary workaround.
- Open your preferred web browser.
- Go to https://web.skype.com.
- Sign in with your Skype account.
- Check if notification sounds work in the web version.
This helps determine if the problem is specific to the desktop app.
FAQs
Why am I not hearing Skype notifications even though volume is on?
Skype’s notification sounds can be muted separately within the app or blocked by Windows Focus Assist. Checking both app and system settings usually resolves this.
Can antivirus or firewall settings block Skype sounds?
It’s rare, but some security programs can interfere with Skype. Temporarily disabling them can help identify if they are the cause.
How do I know if Skype is allowed to send notifications in Windows?
In Windows Settings under System > Notifications, find Skype and ensure notifications and sounds are enabled.
Why do notifications work sometimes and not others?
Focus Assist, Do Not Disturb mode, or app glitches can cause intermittent notification problems. Checking settings and restarting the app often helps.
Is it better to reinstall Skype if sounds still don’t work?
Reinstalling Skype can fix corrupted files affecting notifications. It should be considered after trying the other troubleshooting steps.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and Skype still does not make notification sounds on Windows 11, consider these final options:
- Reinstall Skype: Uninstall Skype from Settings > Apps, then download and install the latest version from the official Skype website.
- Contact Skype Support: Visit https://support.skype.com for official help and troubleshooting guides.
- Check Windows Audio Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the audio troubleshooter.
- Create a new Windows user account: Sometimes profile-specific issues cause problems. Testing Skype notification sounds on a new account can isolate this.
Conclusion
Notification sound issues in Skype on Windows 11 are usually caused by simple settings or temporary glitches. By carefully checking Skype’s notification settings, Windows sound controls, and Focus Assist, you can restore alert sounds.
Remember to keep Skype and Windows updated, and use restarts to clear minor bugs. If problems persist, reinstalling Skype or using the web version can help.
Following the step-by-step solutions in this guide will ensure you never miss an important Skype call or message again.