How to Fix Modern Warfare Voice Chat Not Working on Xbox in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Voice chat is an essential feature for enjoying Modern Warfare on Xbox while playing through Windows 11. It helps you communicate with teammates and coordinate strategies effectively. However, sometimes voice chat might stop working, causing frustration during gameplay.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to fix voice chat issues in Modern Warfare when playing on Xbox via Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along.

By following these instructions, you can quickly identify common problems and resolve them without needing technical expertise. Let’s get started and make your gaming experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Whether you’re new to Xbox on Windows 11 or an experienced player, this guide covers everything you need to know about fixing voice chat problems.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Make sure your Xbox controller and headset are properly connected to your PC.
Check if your microphone is working in other apps like the Windows Voice Recorder.
Ensure your Windows 11 and Xbox app are fully updated to the latest versions.
Verify that your Xbox Live subscription is active, as online multiplayer features require it.

Step 1: Check Xbox Privacy and Online Safety Settings

Your voice chat might be blocked due to privacy settings on your Xbox account. It’s important to allow communication with other players.

Open a web browser and go to the Xbox Privacy Settings page.
Sign in with your Microsoft account linked to Xbox.
Under the “Xbox One/Windows 10 Online Safety” tab, find the “Communication & multiplayer” section.
Set “You can communicate outside of Xbox Live with voice & text” to Allow.
Save your changes and sign out, then sign back into the Xbox app on Windows 11.

This step ensures your account allows voice chat with other players, which is essential for Modern Warfare multiplayer.

Step 2: Verify Windows Microphone Privacy Settings

Windows 11 has privacy settings that can block apps from accessing your microphone. You need to make sure the Xbox app and Modern Warfare can use your microphone.

Click the Start button and select Settings.
Go to Privacy & security > Microphone.
Make sure the toggle for Microphone access is turned On.
Scroll down and confirm that Let apps access your microphone is enabled.
Find the Xbox app and Modern Warfare (if listed) and ensure microphone permission is granted.

If apps cannot access your microphone, your voice chat will not work. This step is crucial for enabling communication.

Step 3: Set Xbox Game Bar and Sound Settings

The Xbox Game Bar is often used for voice chat and recording during gameplay. Configuring it properly can solve many voice chat issues.

Press Win + G to open the Xbox Game Bar.
Click on the Settings gear icon.
Go to the Capturing tab and make sure the microphone is enabled.
Next, right-click the speaker icon in your system tray and select Sounds.
Go to the Recording tab, select your microphone, and click Set Default.
Click Properties, then in the Levels tab, increase the microphone volume if it’s too low.

Setting the correct microphone and sound levels ensures your voice is transmitted clearly during gameplay.

Step 4: Restart Network Services and Check NAT Type

Voice chat depends heavily on your network connection. A restricted NAT type can block voice communication.

Restart your modem and router by unplugging them for 30 seconds, then plugging back in.
On Windows 11, open Command Prompt as administrator and type: ipconfig /flushdns then press Enter.
Type netsh int ip reset and press Enter.
Reboot your computer after running these commands.
Open the Xbox app and check your NAT type by going to Settings > Network.
Ensure your NAT type is Open or Moderate; Strict NAT may block voice chat.

Restarting network services refreshes your connection and flushing DNS can fix potential network issues affecting voice chat.

Step 5: Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers

Outdated or corrupted audio drivers can prevent your microphone from working properly.

Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Expand the Audio inputs and outputs section.
Right-click your microphone device and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
If no update is found, visit your PC or microphone manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers.
If problems persist, right-click and select Uninstall device, then restart your PC to reinstall drivers automatically.

Keeping drivers updated ensures your hardware communicates correctly with Windows and the Xbox app.

Alternative Method: Use Xbox Console Companion App

If you are using the new Xbox app and still face voice chat issues, try the older Xbox Console Companion app, which sometimes has better compatibility for voice features.

Open Microsoft Store on Windows 11.
Search for Xbox Console Companion and install it.
Sign in with your Xbox account and launch Modern Warfare through this app.
Check if voice chat works better using this app.

This can be a useful workaround if the Xbox app is causing issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why can’t I hear other players but they can hear me?

This could be due to your headset or audio output settings. Check if your speakers or headphones are correctly connected and not muted. Also, verify that the game’s audio settings are configured to output voice chat sounds.

How do I know if my microphone is working in Windows 11?

Use the Windows Voice Recorder or Sound Settings to test your microphone. In Settings > System > Sound, you can see the input level when speaking.

Do I need Xbox Live Gold for voice chat?

Yes, Xbox Live Gold or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription is generally required for multiplayer voice chat features in Modern Warfare.

Can firewall or antivirus block voice chat?

Yes, security software might block network connections needed for voice chat. Temporarily disable them or add exceptions for the Xbox app and Modern Warfare to allow communication.

Why is my NAT type strict and how do I fix it?

Strict NAT limits connectivity with other players. You can fix it by enabling UPnP on your router, forwarding ports used by Xbox Live, or placing your PC in the DMZ of your router.

When Nothing Works: Final Resort Options

If you have followed all the steps and voice chat still isn’t working, consider these options:

Contact Xbox Support: Visit the official Xbox Support for personalized help.
Call your Internet Service Provider (ISP): Ask if they block any ports or restrict traffic that could affect Xbox Live services.
Check Activision Support: The Modern Warfare developer’s site (Activision Support) may have game-specific fixes.
Try a Different Headset: Hardware problems can also cause voice issues, so test with another microphone or headset if possible.
Reinstall the Game: As a last step, uninstall and reinstall Modern Warfare to fix corrupted game files.

Conclusion

Fixing Modern Warfare voice chat issues on Xbox while using Windows 11 is usually straightforward when you follow the right steps. Start with checking privacy and microphone permissions, then move to sound settings and network configurations. Keeping drivers updated and verifying NAT type can resolve most problems.

If problems persist, alternative apps, firewall checks, or official support channels can help you get back to smooth voice communication. With patience and these detailed instructions, you can enjoy teamwork and chat seamlessly in Modern Warfare.