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How to Mute or Unmute Sound on Ubuntu Linux

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 7, 2022 Updated Mar 19, 2026 4 min read
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You mute or unmute sound on Ubuntu Linux by using the system menu or the Settings app.

Muting your sound completely silences your computer’s audio output, while unmuting restores it. This is different from simply lowering the volume, which reduces it but doesn’t eliminate it entirely.

In Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, you’ll find the quickest mute/unmute controls in the top bar’s system menu. Click on the right side where icons like Wi-Fi and battery appear to access it.

Knowing how to toggle mute is essential when you need immediate silence, whether for a call or to avoid disturbing others.

⚡ Quick Answer

Mute or unmute sound on Ubuntu by clicking the system menu in the top-right corner and using the volume slider. Slide it all the way left to mute, or move it right to unmute and adjust volume.

How to mute the sound volume in Ubuntu Linux

As mentioned above, Ubuntu Linux allows you to quickly mute the Sound volume from your computer from the system menu.

The system menu is on the right side of the top bar, where the Wi-FiSpeaker, and/or Battery icons are.

Ubuntu system menu displaying sound options
ubuntu system menu on top bar

Once you click on the system menu, the panel should open. You can use the slider to adjust the volume on your PC.

Volume control slider in Ubuntu system menu
ubuntu system menu volume control

Bring the slider left to lower the volume and right to increase it.

You can also bring the slider to the far left to mute the sound from your computer. The speaker should have a little x in front of the icon when the speaker is muted or off.

Muted speaker icon in Ubuntu system menu
mute ubuntu linux on system menu

How to unmute Sound in Ubuntu Linux

If you wish to unmute, click the speaker icon again or move the slider to the right to unmute and increase the sound volume.

Volume control settings in Ubuntu system menu
ubuntu system menu volume control

How to mute or unmute from the Ubuntu Linux settings app

One can also use the Ubuntu Linux settings app to adjust the volume. Below is how to access the Ubuntu Linux settings app.

Ubuntu Linux has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. From system configurations to creating new users and updating, all can be done from the System Settings panel.

Ubuntu activities overview screen
ubuntu linux activities overview

Alternatively, click on the System menu at the top-right corner of the top bar on your desktop.

On the System menu, select Settings, as highlighted below.

Ubuntu system menu with settings options
ubuntu linux system menu top bar settings

In the Settings app, click on a Sound tile to open the panel.

Sound tile in Ubuntu system menu
ubuntu linux sound tile in system menu

In the System Settings -> Sound panel, under System Volume, use the slider to change the volume on your computer.

Volume settings in Ubuntu Linux interface
ubuntu linux system vulume

Some keyboards have keys that let you control the volume. They are often near the “F” keys at the top. For example, laptop keyboards usually use the “F” keys. Hold down the Fn key on your keyboard to use them.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

  • Muting or unmuting the sound volume in Ubuntu Linux can be easily done from the system menu on the top bar.
  • Users can adjust the volume using the slider and quickly mute or unmute the sound by accessing the system menu.
  • Alternatively, the Ubuntu Linux settings app provides another option to adjust the sound volume and control system settings.
  • With the availability of keyboard shortcuts for volume control, users have convenient alternatives to manage sound output on their computers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I mute sound on Ubuntu Linux?

To mute sound on Ubuntu Linux, click on the system menu located on the right side of the top bar. Move the volume slider all the way to the left, and the speaker icon will display an 'x' to indicate that the sound is muted.

Can I unmute sound using the keyboard on Ubuntu Linux?

Yes, many keyboards have dedicated volume control keys, often located near the 'F' keys. You can hold down the 'Fn' key and press the volume up key to unmute or increase the sound.

Where can I find the sound settings in Ubuntu Linux?

You can access the sound settings by clicking on the system menu in the top-right corner and selecting 'Settings.' Then, click on the 'Sound' tile to open the sound settings panel.

What if the sound slider is not working on Ubuntu Linux?

If the sound slider is not responding, try restarting your computer or checking if your sound drivers are up to date. You can also check the sound settings to ensure the correct output device is selected.

Is there a way to mute sound without using the mouse on Ubuntu Linux?

Yes, you can use keyboard shortcuts to mute sound on Ubuntu Linux. Typically, pressing the volume down key repeatedly or using a specific shortcut configured in the system settings can help you mute the sound quickly.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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