What is 0x80070005-AUDIO?
0x80070005-AUDIO is a medium-severity system driver problem. The audio service cannot start because it doesn't have permissions to access the sound driver. This can also stem from antivirus blocking. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.
Common Causes
- Registry permission issue
- Antivirus blocking
- Corrupt driver installation
Step-by-Step Fix Guide
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1
Run Audio Troubleshooter
"Run Audio Troubleshooter" handles an edge case some users report with 0x80070005-AUDIO.
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2
Reset service permissions via CMD
"Reset service permissions via CMD" is the next step worth ruling out for 0x80070005-AUDIO.
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3
Reinstall Realtek/High Definition Audio driver
This step, "Reinstall Realtek/High Definition Audio driver", specifically rules out corrupt driver installation.
Commands & Diagnostics
net stop audiosrv
net start audiosrv
Frequently Asked Questions
In most cases, registry permission issue is behind 0x80070005-AUDIO. Antivirus blocking and corrupt driver installation can trigger it too.
"Run Audio Troubleshooter" clears up most 0x80070005-AUDIO reports by itself. The remaining steps above cover what's left.
0x80070005-AUDIO is a medium-severity issue. It can affect system stability, but the fix steps above typically resolve it without lasting damage.
You shouldn't need to. Work through the guide above first — a reinstall is only worth considering if none of those steps help.
Sometimes. Microsoft regularly releases patches that fix known BSOD triggers including 0x80070005-AUDIO. Make sure Windows is fully up to date via Settings → Windows Update before attempting more advanced fixes.
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