How to Turn On Noise Suppression in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 22, 2025

Background noise during calls or recordings can be distracting — whether it’s a barking dog, keyboard typing, or traffic outside your window. Thankfully, Windows 11 includes built-in noise suppression features to help keep your audio clear.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to turn on noise suppression in Windows 11 step by step, explore different methods, and share troubleshooting tips so you get the best microphone quality possible.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows 11 offers built-in noise suppression to reduce background noise.

  • You can enable it via Settings > System > Sound.

  • Some apps (like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or Discord) also have their own noise suppression.

  • Requires a supported microphone or audio driver.

What Is Noise Suppression in Windows 11?

Noise suppression (also called noise reduction or background noise cancellation) filters out unwanted sounds so only your voice is transmitted.

It’s useful for:

  • Online meetings (Teams, Zoom, Google Meet).

  • Recording podcasts or videos.

  • Gaming with voice chat.

Think of it like a smart filter: your voice goes through, but keyboard clacks and fan noise stay out.

Method 1: Turn On Noise Suppression from Windows Settings

The simplest way is through Windows Sound Settings.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to:

    System > Sound

  3. Scroll down to Input and click your active microphone.

  4. Look for the Audio enhancements section.

  5. Toggle Noise suppression to On.

✅ Done! Windows will now filter out background noise automatically.

Method 2: Enable Noise Suppression in Microsoft Teams

If you use Microsoft Teams, it has its own built-in noise suppression.

Steps:

  1. Open Microsoft Teams.

  2. Click your Profile Picture > Settings.

  3. Go to Devices.

  4. Under Noise Suppression, choose a level:

    • Auto (default) → Teams decides for you.

    • High → Best for eliminating strong background noise.

    • Low → Reduces light noise while saving system resources.

    • Off → No suppression.

💡 Tip: Use High if you’re in a noisy environment, but note it may use more CPU power.

Method 3: Turn On Noise Suppression in Zoom

Zoom also has its own suppression settings.

Steps:

  1. Open the Zoom desktop app.

  2. Click your Profile Picture > Settings.

  3. Go to Audio.

  4. Under Suppress background noise, select:

    • Auto

    • Low

    • Medium

    • High

Method 4: Enable Noise Suppression in Discord

Gamers often use Discord, which includes a Krisp AI-powered noise suppression tool.

Steps:

  1. Open Discord.

  2. Click the gear icon (User Settings).

  3. Go to Voice & Video.

  4. Under Noise Suppression, toggle Krisp on.

Method 5: Use Third-Party Tools

If your mic doesn’t support Windows’ built-in feature, try these tools:

  • NVIDIA RTX Voice (for NVIDIA RTX GPUs).

  • Krisp.ai (free version available).

  • Voicemeeter (advanced audio mixing).

Troubleshooting: Noise Suppression Not Available?

Sometimes, you won’t see the option in Windows 11. Here’s why:

  • ❌ Unsupported microphone driver → Update your driver via Device Manager.

  • ❌ Outdated Windows version → Run Windows Update.

  • ❌ Disabled audio enhancements → Ensure “Enable audio enhancements” is turned on.

👉 To update drivers:

  1. Press Win + X > Device Manager.

  2. Expand Audio inputs and outputs.

  3. Right-click your mic > Update driver.

Comparison of Noise Suppression Options

Method Where to Enable Best For
Windows Settings System-wide Everyday use
Microsoft Teams In-app Work meetings
Zoom In-app Online classes, webinars
Discord In-app Gaming, chatting
Third-party tools External apps Advanced users

Step-by-Step Recap

  1. Windows Settings → System > Sound > Input > Noise Suppression.

  2. Teams → Settings > Devices > Noise Suppression.

  3. Zoom → Settings > Audio > Suppress background noise.

  4. Discord → User Settings > Voice & Video > Krisp.

  5. Third-party apps → NVIDIA RTX Voice, Krisp, Voicemeeter.

Conclusion

Noise suppression in Windows 11 is a game-changer if you want clear audio without distractions. Whether you enable it system-wide or within specific apps like Teams, Zoom, or Discord, the process is simple and quick.

👉 Next time you’re in a call, your voice will come through crystal clear — no barking dogs or clattering keyboards in the background.

FAQs: How to Turn On Noise Suppression in Windows 11

1. Why don’t I see the noise suppression option in Windows 11?
It may be due to outdated drivers or unsupported hardware. Try updating your microphone driver.

2. Does noise suppression affect sound quality?
Slightly, but it’s optimized to focus on your voice while removing background noise.

3. Can I use noise suppression in games?
Yes, if enabled system-wide in Windows or via Discord.

4. Do I need special hardware for noise suppression?
No, but some features (like RTX Voice) require specific GPUs.

5. Is Windows noise suppression better than third-party apps?
For most users, Windows’ built-in option is enough. Power users may prefer tools like Krisp or NVIDIA RTX Voice for more control.

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