It is easy to record and edit audio using the Audacity platform. However, some users are reporting the error code -9999, which indicates Unanticipated Host Error. This error happens because of conflict in the security setting. Audacity may not recognize 3rd party tools such as your microphone. Your antivirus may have also blocked the platform.
The complete error message looks like this:
“Error opening recording device.
Error code: -9999 Unanticipated host error.”
If you see the error code 9999 when you are using Audacity, you can fix it using the methods below.
Audacity Error Code 9999: Unanticipated Host when Opening Recording Device
Solution #1 – Quit Video Conferencing Apps
If you are using Skype, you may want to close the app first. Audacity may not recognize your recording devices since these are tagged as default on Skype or any other video conferencing app. Close the apps and try launching Audacity again.
Solution #2 – Disable Your Antivirus
One of the reasons for the error is when your antivirus finds the app a threat to your computer or device. You might want to turn off your antivirus and check if the error is still there. If not, then your antivirus may cause the error to appear. Disable it temporarily every time you open Audacity.
- To disable your antivirus, navigate to the Settings menu.
- Go to Update & Security.
- Select Windows Security.
- Click Virus & threat protection.
- Select Manage settings.
- Under Real-time protection, select Off.
Solution #3 – Allow 3rd Party Apps Access to Microphone
- First, you have to close the Audacity software.
- Navigate to Settings.
- Look for Microphone Privacy and click to open. You may also type ms-settings:privacy-microphone in the Run dialog box.
- Look for Allow apps to access your microphone.
- Under the section, toggle the button to On.
- Look under the allowed apps and make sure Audacity is enable.
Which of the solutions above help you fix the error? We would love to know, so drop us a comment below.
