I google your specs, and hit 99% msi laptops. Try this: Under 3D Settings -> Manage 3D settings -> Program settings, for WolfET, turn "Threaded Optimization" off (in lieu of On or Auto). Updating drivers will most likely not help at all, as bartmen already said, but still try updating those provided by MSI - if there are any updates. More on this, its apparently an issue between Realtek and Punkbuster; and also affects other games. So start by having latest punkbuster. So use this http://etkey.org/pages/punkbuster/auto---install-for-windows-by-harlekin.php and get latest available pb for ET. Lastly try this (from http://en.kioskea.net/faq/8280-freeze-battlefield-bad-company-2 ): Still the easiest will be to buy a usb soundcard for 1€ or something..