How to Fix Windows Camera Not Working

Fix your Windows camera when it won't work. Step-by-step solutions for camera access, driver issues, and privacy settings that block your webcam.

1. Check camera privacy settings. Open Settings > Privacy & security > Camera. Toggle 'Camera access' to On. Scroll down and ensure 'Let apps access your camera' is enabled. If using a specific app, verify it appears in the list below and is toggled on.
2. Close conflicting applications. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager. Look for applications that might be using your camera (Skype, Teams, OBS, etc.) and click 'End task' on any you're not actively using. Only one application can typically access the camera at a time.
3. Update camera drivers. Right-click Start button and select 'Device Manager'. Expand 'Cameras' or 'Imaging devices'. Right-click your camera device and select 'Update driver'. Choose 'Search automatically for drivers' and let Windows install any available updates.
4. Run the camera troubleshooter. Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters. Find 'Camera' and click 'Run'. Follow the on-screen prompts as Windows automatically detects and attempts to fix camera issues.
5. Reset the Camera app. Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps. Search for 'Camera' and click the three dots next to it. Select 'Advanced options', then click 'Reset'. This clears the app's data and returns it to default settings.
6. Check for Windows updates. Open Settings > Windows Update and click 'Check for updates'. Install any available updates and restart your computer. Newer Windows versions often include camera driver improvements and compatibility fixes.
7. Verify physical camera connection. For external webcams, unplug the USB cable and reconnect it to a different USB port. For built-in cameras, check if a physical privacy shutter is covering the lens. Restart your computer after reconnecting external cameras.