Audio Settings

The audio settings on your MacBook control the volume on the computer. If the volume has been set low or the entire computer audio has been muted, your computer may appear to lose its capability for sound. The first step in solving an audio problem is to check the overall settings, even if you have not changed them recently; updates and reinstalling programs can affect the audio. The audio options are located in the Apple menu > System Preferences > Sound. The Mute check box at the bottom should not be selected and the Output Volume slider should be farther to the right.

Program-Specific Settings

Some programs on your computer have their own audio settings, which will occasionally conflict with computer audio settings and cause the sound to stop working. Skype, for example, has its own volume controls that can cause the entire computer audio to be silenced. Program audio is usually located in a Preferences, Options, or Tools menu. The settings for input, output, volume and mute should match the overall audio settings for your computer.

External Hardware

When you plug in a device that controls the volume of your MacBook, it can affect the overall sound. Headphones, headsets and speakers are common culprits; it is easy to forget that they are plugged in. If you are using speakers, check that the volume settings are not set all the way down. For a quick fix, unplug the device and check the volume.

Other Solutions

The temporary settings and preferences on your MacBook can become corrupt, affecting the speakers and volume. Restarting the computer will usually solve temporary problems, allowing your computer volume to begin working again. If the volume only stops working when you use a specific program, uninstalling and reinstalling the program will usually resolve the issue. In extreme situations, you may need to reinstall or upgrade the operating system.