From the other comments, it sounds like you’re using a dynamic mic. So, you can very likely rule out phantom power as, while they may exist, I’m not aware of any dynamic mics that use phantom power.
Additionally, from your original post, you note that you are using an XLR to phono adapter to connect and can get some signal, if you crank up the boost.
Are you by chance running direct from the mic to the on-board soundcard?
If so, that is probably your issue. The mic-in on most non-audio production soundcards isn’t designed for this. They are intended for things like electret condensor mics that have built-in pre-amps or others that produce a signal that is closer to line-level.
Most stage and studio mics that use XLR connections produce a very low signal that is intended to run through a pre-amplifier to bring it up to line-level before it goes to tape/DAW/PA power amp.
So, my recommendation would be to take one of two routes:
Obtain a mic pre-amp and add it to your signal chain between the mic and computer.
Obtain an audio interface that contains a decent mic pre-amp.
I would recommend the second, if practical as the ADCs in on-board soundcards are historically mediocre to poor. You will probably be much happier with the result.