By Ellie / Last Updated October 12, 2023

How do I fix no audio devices are installed in Remote Desktop?

 

I'm establishing a connection from a Windows 7 Enterprise machine to a Windows 10 system. I've diligently followed multiple guides to configure audio redirection. The playback functionality is operating as expected, but I'm encountering an issue with recording. Any suggestions on how to resolve this situation?”

- Question from Reddit

No Audio Devices Are Installed

How to fix Remote Desktop “No audio devices are installed” [4 solutions]

To resolve the Remote Desktop"No audio devices are installed" problem, you have four potential solutions at your disposal. Let's embark on the journey of implementing these steps.

Solution 1. Check the Windows Audio service

Should you encounter the Remote Desktop Recording "No audio devices are installed" issue, it's essential to ensure that the Windows Audio service is up and running on both the RDP server and client.

Step 1. Right-click on the "Start" button to reveal the menu, and opt for "Windows PowerShell (Admin)."

Windows PowerShell Admin

Step 2. Execute the following command to determine the status of the service:

  • Get-Service Audiosrv

Check Windows Audio Service State Audiosrv

If the service is already running, proceed to the next solution. If not, let's continue with the steps to start the service.

Step 3. Simultaneously press "Win+R," type "services.msc" into the Run dialog, and click "OK" to access the Services panel.

Run Services

Step 4. Within the Services panel, locate "Windows Audio," right-click on it, and proceed to the next step.

Windows Audio

Step 5. In the General tab, under "Startup type," choose "Automatic." For the "Service status," select "Start," and then confirm your selections by clicking "OK."

Windows Audio Propertie

Solution 2. Check the UmRdpService service

In addition to the previous solution, you should also ensure that the Remote Desktop Services UserMode Port Redirector (UmRdpService) service is running.

Step 1. Open PowerShell and execute the following command to verify the status of the UmRdpService:

  • Get-Service UmRdpService

If the service is already running, proceed to the next solution. If it's not running, let's proceed with the steps to start the service.

Step 2. Access the Services menu, and locate "Remote Desktop Services UserMode Port Redirector." Right-click on it to continue.

Remote Desktop Services Usermode Port Redirector

Step 3. In the General tab, under "Startup type," choose "Automatic." For the "Service status," select "Start," and then confirm your selections by clicking "OK."

Start Remote Desktop Services Usermode Port Redirector

Solution 3. Check the GPO settings

To ensure that your Group Policy settings aren't obstructing remote audio playback, you can follow these steps:

Step 1. On the remote computer, press Win + R to open the Run dialog box. Type in "gpedit.msc" and press OK to launch the Local Group Policy Editor window.

Local Group Policy Editor Window

Step 2. Navigate to the following path: Local Computer Policy > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Device and Resource Redirection.

Device and Resource Redirection

Step 3. Within the Device and Resource Redirection section, look for Allow audio and video playback redirection and Allow audio recording redirection in the right pane.

Allow Redirection

Step 4. Individually select these two settings, and ensure that they are configured as "Enabled."

Playback Redirection

Solution 4. Check the program settings

In case you're utilizing the built-in mstsc.exe client (Remote Desktop Connection) for your RDP sessions, it's wise to verify its settings for optimal audio performance. Here's how:

Step 1. Simultaneously press the "Windows" and "R" keys. In the dialog that appears, type "mstsc" and press "Enter."

Run Box mstsc

Step 2. Within the Remote Desktop Connection window, click on the "Show Options" button.

Show Options

Step 3. Navigate to the "Local Resources" tab. Under "Remote audio," change the setting from “Do not record” to “Record from this computer” in the Remote audio recording section.

Record from This Computer

Step 4. Now, establish the connection to your Remote Desktop. Once connected, open the "Sound" settings in the Control Panel. Within the "Recording" tab, confirm that the Remote Audio device is selected as the default recording device for sound. These adjustments will optimize your audio experience during Remote Desktop sessions.

Remote Audio Available

Bonus tip: Best Remote Desktop alternative without audio issue

If you're facing persistent challenges with the Remote Desktop Connection “No audio devices are installed” issue, it may be worthwhile to explore alternative solutions. AnyViewer stands out as a compelling choice in this context. This free remote desktop software not only streamlines remote audio synchronization but also unlocks possibilities for tasks like remote video editing and even remote PC gaming.

Benefiting from a highly skilled technical team, AnyViewer guarantees a smooth and dependable remote connection, marked by minimal latency and an impressive frame rate of up to 60 frames per second. It presents itself as a valuable option for enhancing your remote experience. To embark on this journey and enjoy the advantages, simply download and install AnyViewer to get started today. Your remote computing experience is about to level up.

Download Freeware Win 11/10/8.1/8/7/Server
Secure Download

Step 1. Open AnyViewer and sign in using your account credentials.

Log in AnyViewer

Step 2. Once you've logged in, you'll be welcomed by the user interface.

Free Editions

Step 3. On your client computer, head to the "Device" section. Find the PC you want to control and commence an instant remote connection by clicking "One-click control." This streamlined process ensures easy and efficient remote access to the desired computer.

Connect to My Devices

★Tips:
To further elevate your remote access experience, you might consider upgrading to AnyViewer's Professional or Enterprise plan. Here's a glimpse of the benefits you can expect:
Enhanced device control: Effortlessly manage multiple unattended access devices, putting you in control with ease.
Seamless multi-tasking: Handle multiple remote sessions simultaneously, making your workflow more efficient.
Rapid file transfers: Swiftly transfer large files between devices, ensuring your data moves without a hitch.
Privacy mode: Access remote devices while keeping your screen dimmed and keyboard disabled for enhanced privacy and security.
...

 

The bottom line

In conclusion, if you're experiencing the "No audio devices are installed" error in Remote Desktop, don't worry. We've presented four solutions: check the Windows Audio and UmRdpService, review Group Policy settings, and optimize the Remote Desktop Connection client. If issues persist, consider AnyViewer as an alternative for improved audio and remote control. Say goodbye to audio problems and embrace a seamless experience.