since the dec. windows update, whenever I turn off my laptop, the audio shuts off and I have to run troubleshooter, which then turns my audio back on

It sounds like you're experiencing an issue with your audio settings after a Windows update. Here are some steps you can try to resolve the problem:

1. Run the Audio Troubleshooter: Since you mentioned that running the troubleshooter temporarily resolves the issue, continue to do this after each restart until a permanent fix is found.
2. Check Audio Services: Ensure that the Windows Audio and Windows Audio Endpoint Builder services are running. You can check this by typing services.msc in the Run dialog (Win + R) and looking for these services.
3. Update or Roll Back Drivers: You mentioned that all drivers are up to date. However, if the problem started after an update, consider rolling back the audio driver to a previous version. You can do this through Device Manager by right-clicking on your audio device and selecting "Properties" > "Driver" > "Roll Back Driver" if the option is available.
4. Reinstall Audio Drivers: If rolling back doesn't work, try uninstalling the audio driver completely and then reinstalling it. This can sometimes resolve conflicts that cause audio issues.
5. Check for Windows Updates: Since Microsoft indicated that a future update might resolve the issue, keep checking for new Windows updates and install them when available.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, you may want to consult the Microsoft support forums or consider reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance.

References:

• USB audio device not playing
• How to fix this. no audio device is installed - Microsoft Q&A

Hi, I'm Bernard, a fellow Windows user. I'm happy to help!

Based on your inputs, it seems that there is an incompatibility with the audio driver. Moreover, kindly follow the steps below for us to sort out the issue:

-Press the Windows key + X

-Go to Device Manager

-Expand the Sound, video and game controller

-Look for Realtek (R) Audio or High Definition audio

-Right-click and click Update Driver

-Select Browse my computer for drivers

-Click Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer

-Choose an old driver or another driver name, then select it and hit next until it installs.

-Restart the PC and check.

Note: If the issue persists, please download and install an audio driver from your manufacturer's website.