If Windows installs a generic "High Definition Audio Device" instead, repeat steps and point to the Realtek .inf.
Sometimes Windows says "Best driver already installed." To force it:
Symptom: You plug headphones into the case, but no sound. Sound only from rear. Cause: The ALC897 relies on "HD Audio" vs. "AC97" headers. The driver is set to the wrong standard. Fix: Open Realtek Audio Console -> Device Advanced Settings -> Enable "Mute the rear output device when a front headphone is plugged in." Also, check your BIOS: Front Panel Type should be set to HD Audio, not AC97. Realtek Alc897 Driver
This ensures the driver matches the specific customizations (jack detection, audio ports) of your PC case.
On many new systems, the classic Control Panel is gone. You need the modern app. If Windows installs a generic "High Definition Audio
You can't easily on Windows 11. Microsoft forced vendors to use the "UWP" (Universal Windows Platform) app—the Realtek Audio Console. To get the classic manager, you would need to hack an old Windows 10 driver (not recommended for security).
Realtek’s site is dated and confusing. For the ALC897, you need the "High Definition Audio Codecs" driver (Version R2.8x or newer). However, Realtek no longer provides direct public downloads; they redirect you to your PC vendor. Use this method only as a last resort. Sometimes Windows says "Best driver already installed
This is always the best source. Realtek makes the chip, but your motherboard vendor (ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, ASRock) customizes the driver to work with their specific rear I/O layout and front panel header.