How to permanently install Realtek HD audio drivers

Question

When I updated to Windows 10 the audio quality for none Windows applications dropped a lot. I fixed this by downloading a different version of realtek audio drivers and then running the .exe thus installing it.

This fixes the problem perfectly however, the next time I start up the computer the audio reverts to its original quality until I reinstall the drivers again.

Does anyone know how I can install the driver permanently?

Solution

Do this when you have audio quality problem (i.e. after restart)

1. Recommended: create a system restore point.

2. Go to run and type devmgmt.msc and press enter to open device manager.

3. In device manager, under Sound, video, and game controllers find High definition Audio driver and right-click it. Choose properties, under the Driver tab choose Driver Details. Look for one of driver file names, located under C:\windows\system32\drivers.

4. Go to C:\Windows\System32\DriverStore\FileRepository and in the search box, type in one of the driver file names you found in device manager. (in my case, it's RTKVHD64.sys, AERTAR64.dll, or RTAIODAT.DAT). Now, right click on the found file, and choose Open file location. You are in the driver folder now, at the address bar in explorer, click on FileRepository to go back to main folder. Now, right click the highlighted folder and choose Properties, go to Security tab and choose Advanced. In front of Owner click Change and type in your username and click ok. Check the box Replace owner on subcontainer and objects and click ok. Now, in the Security tab again, choose Edit and Add your user account and grant it Full control. Apply and exit the Properties. Now, you can delete or cut the highlighted folder to somewhere else.

5. Go back to device manager and on the open driver properties, choose Uninstall and check the box Delete the driver software for this device. Restart if required, then manually install your driver.

From now on, it can't revert to previous driver, because it no longer exists.

Disclaimer: Do it at your own risk! I'm not responsible for any critical driver deleted by mistake!