Start here: If your camera shows a black screen, “no camera found,” or refuses to start, the most common cause is Windows or app permissions, a driver problem, or a hardware/connection issue. This article explains how to fix Webcam doesn’t work in Windows 10 and restores video in most cases.
You’ll learn the likely causes and step-by-step fixes (from quick checks to driver reinstall and hardware tests), plus prevention tips so the problem doesn’t come back.
Key Takeaway
Most webcam problems are resolved by confirming camera access in Settings > Privacy > Camera, testing the camera with the built-in Camera app, and updating or reinstalling the camera driver via Device Manager. If a hardware issue remains, testing the camera on another PC or trying a different USB port will quickly identify a faulty device.
Quick Fix Guide
Quick Fix Guide
| Reason for the Problem | Quick Solution |
|---|---|
| Camera access disabled in Windows privacy settings | Turn on Settings > Privacy > Camera > Allow apps to access your camera. |
| App blocked from using camera | In Settings > Privacy > Camera, enable access for the specific app. |
| Camera driver missing, outdated, or corrupt | Open Device Manager (devmgmt.msc) and update or uninstall/reinstall the camera driver. |
| Recent Windows Update broke camera | Roll back the camera driver or uninstall the problematic Windows update. |
| Antivirus or firewall blocking camera | Temporarily disable AV or add camera app to exceptions. |
| Camera disabled in Device Manager or BIOS/UEFI | Enable camera in Device Manager or in your PC’s BIOS/UEFI settings. |
| Physical cover, cable, or connection issue | Remove cover, try a different USB port/cable, or reconnect the built-in cable. |
| Another app is using the camera | Close other apps (Zoom, Teams) and restart the Camera app. |
| Outdated Windows version | Install updates via Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. |
| Wrong default camera selected | In the app’s camera settings, choose the correct camera device. |
| Desktop apps need explicit permission | Allow desktop apps in Settings > Privacy > Camera or check app settings. |
| Camera privacy shutter or switch enabled | Open the shutter or flip the physical switch to allow video. |
| Faulty webcam hardware | Test on another PC or replace the camera if it fails on multiple systems. |
Detailed Fixes for “Webcam doesn’t work in Windows 10”
1) Camera access disabled in Windows privacy settings
Why this causes the problem:
Windows 10 has a global privacy switch that blocks apps from using the camera. If it’s off, no apps (including the Camera app) can access the device.
Step-by-step solution:
- Open Settings (press Windows + I).
- Go to Privacy > Camera.
- Turn on Allow access to the camera on this device if it’s off (click Change then toggle).
- Turn on Allow apps to access your camera.
- Scroll down and ensure the relevant app has its toggle set to On.
Notes:
- System-wide off will show “Camera access for this device is off.” Toggle it on first.
- If you manage a work PC, group policies can override this—see your IT admin.
2) Individual app is blocked from using the camera
Why:
Even if global access is allowed, individual desktop or Store apps can be disabled.
Step-by-step:
- In Settings > Privacy > Camera, scroll to the app list.
- Under Choose which Microsoft Store apps can access your camera, enable the app.
- For desktop apps, ensure Allow desktop apps to access your camera is On.
- Restart the app.
Tip:
Some older desktop apps don’t appear in the list; enabling desktop apps generally covers them.
3) Camera driver missing, outdated, or corrupt
Why:
Windows needs the correct device driver to operate the webcam. Corrupt or incompatible drivers cause failure.
Step-by-step:
- Press Windows + R, type devmgmt.msc, press Enter.
- Expand Cameras or Imaging devices (or Sound, video and game controllers).
- Right-click your webcam device and choose Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.
- If update fails, choose Uninstall device (check Delete the driver software for this device if present), then reboot — Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver.
- If Windows can’t find a driver, go to your PC or webcam maker’s website and download the latest driver, then install it manually.
Commands/Advanced:
- To scan and reinstall drivers: open an elevated PowerShell and run: pnputil /scan-devices (for advanced driver management).
- If driver updates cause problems, in Device Manager right-click the camera and choose Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver if available.
Note:
OEM drivers from laptop manufacturers are often best for integrated webcams.
4) Windows Update caused camera failure
Why:
Sometimes a Windows Update installs a driver or system change that stops the camera.
Step-by-step:
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
- If you see a recent update that coincides with the issue, go to Uninstall updates and remove it.
- Alternatively, in Device Manager locate the camera driver and Roll Back Driver.
- After rollback, hide the problematic update using Microsoft’s Show or hide updates troubleshooter to prevent reinstallation.
Tip:
Keep note of the update KB number so IT support or forums can help.
5) Antivirus or firewall blocks the camera
Why:
Some security suites block camera access to protect privacy; this blocks legitimate apps too.
Step-by-step:
- Temporarily disable your antivirus/webcam protection (consult vendor docs).
- Test the Camera app. If it works, add the app to your AV exceptions or disable the camera blocking feature.
- Re-enable full protection once configured.
Warning:
Only disable antivirus briefly for testing; re-enable it immediately after.
6) Camera disabled in Device Manager or BIOS/UEFI
Why:
The device can be disabled at the OS level or disabled in BIOS/UEFI on some systems.
Step-by-step:
- Open Device Manager (devmgmt.msc).
- If the camera shows a down arrow or is listed under Other devices, right-click and choose Enable device.
- If not visible, restart and press BIOS key (F2, Del, Esc depending on brand) to enter BIOS/UEFI.
- Look for Integrated Peripherals, Onboard Devices, or Security settings and ensure the camera is enabled. Save and exit.
Note:
BIOS steps vary by vendor—consult your PC’s manual.
7) Physical cover, cable, or connection issue (external webcam)
Why:
For external webcams, a loose USB cable, faulty port, or physical cover will stop video.
Step-by-step:
- Ensure any physical privacy cover or shutter is open.
- Unplug the webcam and try a different USB port (avoid USB hubs; use a direct port).
- Try a different USB cable if possible.
- Test the webcam on another computer to confirm hardware.
Tip:
For USB 3.0 webcams, use a USB 3.0 port (usually blue). Some older ports may not supply enough power.
8) Another app is using the camera
Why:
Only one app can access the camera at a time. Background apps like Teams or Zoom may hold the device.
Step-by-step:
- Close all communication apps (Zoom, Teams, Skype, browser tabs with video chat).
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and end processes that might use the camera.
- Launch the Camera app to test.
Tip:
Restarting Windows is a quick way to free the camera if you’re unsure which app is blocking it.
9) Outdated Windows version
Why:
Older Windows builds can have bugs or missing features that affect camera drivers.
Step-by-step:
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install all available updates.
- Reboot and test the camera.
Note:
Windows feature updates sometimes update camera drivers, so this can both fix and occasionally break devices (see update rollback above).
10) Wrong default camera selected
Why:
If multiple cameras (built-in + external) exist, apps may select the wrong device.
Step-by-step:
- Open the app you’re using (Zoom, Teams, Skype).
- Open the app’s Settings > Video or Camera options.
- Select the correct camera from the drop-down list.
- Restart the app if selection doesn’t take effect.
Tip:
Test with built-in Camera app to ensure Windows recognizes each device.
11) Desktop apps need explicit permissions or different handling
Why:
Desktop apps may not use the same permission model as Store apps and can be blocked by OS or AV settings.
Step-by-step:
- In Settings > Privacy > Camera, ensure Allow desktop apps to access your camera is On.
- Check the app’s internal permissions (e.g., in Chrome go to Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings > Camera).
- For browsers, ensure site-specific permissions are allowed.
12) Camera privacy shutter or hardware switch enabled
Why:
Many laptops include a physical privacy shutter or switch which, when engaged, blocks the lens or disables the camera electronically.
Step-by-step:
- Look along the top bezel for a small slider or shutter. Slide it open.
- On some models, a physical switch in the keyboard area or an Fn key toggles the camera—consult your manual.
- Test the Camera app.
Tip:
A privacy LED is often near the lens—if you don’t see it light up when the camera should be on, check the shutter.
13) Faulty webcam hardware
Why:
If everything else checks out, the camera sensor or internal cable may be damaged.
Step-by-step:
- Test the webcam in another computer (for external webcams) or use a USB adapter if needed.
- If the webcam fails on multiple PCs, replace it. For laptops with integrated cameras, consult a repair shop or manufacturer for replacement—internal cables can detach or fail.
- As a last resort, consider using a USB webcam or turning a smartphone into a temporary webcam (see third-party apps like DroidCam or the vendor’s official solutions).
Note:
Hardware failure is more likely if the camera was physically impacted or exposed to moisture.
Preventive Maintenance and Extra Tips
- Keep Windows and drivers updated regularly but create a restore point before major updates (Control Panel > Recovery > Create a restore point).
- Use the built-in Camera app to test hardware quickly: open Start, type Camera and run it.
- Maintain only one security tool that actively blocks camera access to avoid conflicts.
- Use a trusted external webcam if you need higher reliability or resolution.
- Create a short troubleshooting checklist to run when the camera fails: check shutter, test Camera app, check Privacy settings, restart, test another app, try another USB port.
FAQ
How can I test my webcam quickly?
Open the built-in Camera app (Start > Camera) — if it shows a live image, the camera and Windows access are working.
Can I use my phone as a webcam for Windows 10?
Yes. Use apps like DroidCam or EpocCam; install the phone app and the PC client, follow pairing instructions (USB/Wi‑Fi). They are good temporary solutions.
Why does the camera work in one app but not another?
Apps have independent camera selections and permissions. Check the app’s camera settings and Windows Settings > Privacy > Camera. Also ensure no other app is locking the camera.
How do I recover if a Windows update removes my camera driver?
Roll back the driver in Device Manager (Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver) or uninstall the recent Windows update in Settings > Update & Security > View update history > Uninstall updates.
Are there advanced logs or tools to diagnose camera problems?
Yes — use Event Viewer (Windows Logs > System or Applications) to look for errors, and run the built-in Hardware and Devices troubleshooter by running msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic from Run. For driver-level diagnostics, the vendor may offer logging tools.
In summary, start with quick checks (privacy switches, app permissions, Camera app test), then update or reinstall the driver, and finally verify hardware connections or test on another PC. Following these steps will resolve most cases where Webcam doesn’t work in Windows 10.
