This error generally means that the Skype cannot find/use your audio device e.g. speaker or headset. That is why the first thing we tell the users is to make sure that your audio device is connected and in working condition. If the device is working then the issue might be in the audio drivers. Lastly, the problem might also be related to Skype. There can be a problem in the Skype configuration files preventing the Skype to properly communicate with your audio device. There are quite a few methods that can help you resolve the issue. There are some workarounds as well if the issue isn’t rectified properly. So, go through each method below and if none of the methods works then go for a workaround to make Skype usable.
Tips
Method 1: Audio Troubleshooter
This is the most basic thing and it resolves the issue for the majority of the users. The Audio Troubleshooter can be found in the control panel and solves the issue pretty quickly. This is available in all latest versions of Windows so you don’t have to worry about the Windows version as well. The steps for running Audio Troubleshooter are given below
Wait for the troubleshooter to fix the issue. Once done, try again and see if you can use Skype without any problems.
Method 2: Check Default Devices
Make sure your audio devices are enabled and selected as the default devices. You can easily check and change the status of the devices from the Sound window. Follow the steps given below to check the default devices
Once done, click Apply then select Ok. Now, check if the problem is resolved. Note: Open Skype and click Tools then select Options. Click Audio settings from General section. Make sure your audio devices are selected. If they aren’t, select the devices (mic and headset/speaker) from the drop down menu.
Method 3: Check and Update Audio Drivers
Checking and making sure you have the right drivers will also solve the issue for you. Your drivers might be corrupted or your device might have outdated drivers. So, updating your drivers will fix the issue. If your devices are working perfectly on other applications then drivers might not be the culprit here. But, updating the drivers will only take a few minutes. So, we will advise you to follow the steps.
Once done, check if the problem is resolved.
Method 4: Close and Re-open Skype
This isn’t a solution but a workaround of the problem. If none of the methods given above solve the issue and you really have to use the Skype then close the Skype and restart the application. This has resolved the issue (temporarily) for a lot of users.
Method 5: Uninstall and Reinstall Audio drivers
Uninstalling and letting Windows reinstall the audio drivers have solved the issue for plenty of people. This will work if the issue is caused by a problematic driver.
Windows will automatically install the most compatible drivers for your devices. Once the reboot is complete, you will see that the drivers are installed. Check if this resolves your issue. Note for kamil: The source is from techcaption (not a forum). 2 users posted the link claiming that it resolved the issue for them. So, I am using this as a source. Exclude it if you want.
Method 6: Reset Skype
If nothing else worked then it is time to reset the Skype configuration. This will completely reset the Skype app and, hopefully, resolve your issue. Note: This will remove the Skype threads from the application. Here are the steps for resetting the Skype application
Now, start Skype and check if it resolves the issue. Note for kamil: The source is from techcaption (not a forum). 2 users posted the link claiming that it resolved the issue for them. So, I am using this as a source. Exclude it if you want.
Fix: Can’t Create a Lock File at Library/Application Support/Skype/Skype.pidSkype for Mac Update Breaks Skype Directory Service, Here’s How You Can Fix ItFix: Skype Problem with Recording DeviceSOLVED: If playback doesn’t begin shortly try restarting your device
