Windows · Accessibility
Control your PC entirely by voice
Voice access lets you control your PC and author text using only your voice, including opening apps, clicking on-screen elements by number labels, and dictating and editing documents hands-free.
How to open Voice Access
- Open Settings → Accessibility → Speech
- Turn on Voice access
- Follow the setup wizard to download the speech model
- Say 'voice access wake up' to start controlling your PC
What you should know
- Enable voice access and choose whether it starts automatically at sign-in
- Turn on number labels or grid overlays to click any on-screen element by voice
- Use a customizable wake word to activate listening on demand
- Access a built-in command guide for supported voice commands
Voice access requires an internet connection the first time to download the speech model, though recognition then runs on-device.
Why it matters
Voice access gives people with mobility or repetitive strain limitations a way to fully operate Windows without a mouse or keyboard, opening up computing for users who otherwise couldn't use a PC independently. Because it runs on-device rather than requiring a constant cloud connection, it's also fast and works reliably offline once set up. It's distinct from dictation tools in that it controls the operating system itself, not just text entry, letting users launch apps, click buttons, and navigate menus by voice. For many users with conditions like arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or paralysis, this feature is a genuine assistive technology rather than a convenience.
Best practices
- Review the built-in command guide before relying on voice access for daily tasks
- Use number overlays for precise clicking instead of trying to describe elements verbally
- Set a distinct wake word if you share a room with others to avoid accidental activation
- Pair with Narrator if you also need audio feedback about what's on screen
Common problems and fixes
- Voice access doesn't recognize commands accurately
- Retrain recognition by speaking clearly in a quiet environment and reviewing the command guide for exact phrasing.
- Feature won't turn on
- Confirm your Windows edition and hardware meet the minimum requirements, and check for the initial speech model download.
- Wake word triggers accidentally from background noise
- Change to a more distinctive wake word or switch to manual activation.
Tips and tricks
- Say 'show numbers' to overlay clickable numbers on every visible element
- Say 'what can I say' at any time to bring up context-relevant commands
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as Voice Typing?
No, Voice Typing is for dictating text into fields, while Voice access controls the whole operating system, including clicking and app launching.
Does it work offline?
Yes, after the initial one-time setup download, voice access recognition runs locally on the device.
Which languages are supported?
Support varies by Windows version; check the command guide for the current list of supported languages.
Related settings
- Voice TypingVoice Typing lets you dictate text directly into any text field using your PC's microphone instead of a physical keyboard, powered by online speech recognition. Triggered with Win+H, it includes automatic punctuation, voice commands for corrections, and support for multiple dictation languages.
- NarratorNarrator is the screen reader built into Windows 11 that reads aloud on-screen text, describes buttons and controls, and lets you operate the entire system with the keyboard or touch instead of a mouse.
- AccessibilityAccessibility settings (renamed from Ease of Access in earlier Windows versions) bring together vision, hearing, and interaction tools like Magnifier, Narrator, high contrast themes, live captions, and Sticky Keys. These features are designed to make Windows usable regardless of visual, auditory, or mobility needs, but many are genuinely useful for anyone.
More Accessibility guides for Windows
- Language & RegionLanguage & Region settings let you configure your display language, keyboard layouts, regional date/time formats, and add additional languages for typing and speech.
- Contrast ThemesContrast themes apply high-contrast color combinations across Windows and apps, making text and UI elements easier to distinguish for people with low vision or light sensitivity.
- Text SizeText size lets you enlarge text in most Windows apps and menus independently of overall display scaling, making content easier to read without shrinking the layout of everything else.
- Text CursorText cursor settings let you change the color, size, and indicator of the blinking cursor that appears when typing, making it easier to locate on screen.
- Mouse Pointer and TouchThis page controls the size, color, and style of the mouse pointer and touch indicator, making them easier to see and track across the screen.
- Visual EffectsVisual effects settings let you turn off animations, transparency, and auto-hiding scroll bars to create a simpler, calmer, and more predictable interface.