External Webcam Not Recognised
When your computer doesn't recognize an external webcam, apps and websites can't access video input. This page covers how to fix external webcam recognition issues. Check USB connections first, then verify drivers and system settings.
If you need to check your camera quickly, run the webcam test.
Check USB Connections
USB connection issues are the most common cause of webcam recognition problems. Verify connections.
- Unplug and firmly reconnect USB webcam
- Try a different USB port, preferably USB 3.0 or higher
- Check for visible damage to USB cables or connectors
- Avoid USB hubs; connect directly to the computer
- Test with a different USB cable if available
Check Device Manager
Verify your webcam appears in Device Manager and isn't disabled.
- Windows: Open Device Manager → Look for "Imaging devices" or "Cameras"
- Check if webcam appears in the list
- If it shows a warning icon, right-click and select "Enable device"
- If device is missing, check USB connections
- Try uninstalling and reconnecting the device
Install or Update Drivers
Missing or outdated drivers can prevent webcam recognition. Install or update drivers. For general webcam issues, see the guide on webcam not working.
- Windows: Device Manager → Right-click webcam → Update driver → Search automatically
- Check webcam manufacturer website for latest drivers
- Install manufacturer software if available
- Restart computer after installing drivers
- Test webcam recognition again
Check System Information
Verify your computer detects the USB device at the system level.
- Windows: Device Manager → Universal Serial Bus controllers → Check for webcam
- Mac: System Information → USB → Look for webcam device
- If device doesn't appear, USB connection may be faulty
- Try a different USB port or cable
Check Camera Permissions
System camera permissions may need to be enabled for external webcams.
- Windows: Settings → Privacy → Camera → Ensure apps can access camera
- Mac: System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Camera → Check your browser
- Restart browser after changing permissions
- Test webcam recognition again
Test on Another Computer
Test the webcam on another computer to rule out hardware issues.
- Connect webcam to another computer
- Check if it's recognized there
- If it works on another computer, issue is with your system
- If it doesn't work anywhere, webcam may be faulty
Test Webcam Recognition
After trying these steps, use the online webcam test to verify your external webcam is recognized. The test shows available cameras and confirms device detection.
Run the webcam test to verify your camera setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my external webcam not being recognized?
External webcam recognition issues are usually caused by USB connection problems, missing drivers, or system permissions. Check USB connections first, then verify drivers are installed and system permissions are enabled.
How do I get my computer to recognize my external webcam?
Unplug and reconnect the USB webcam, try a different USB port, and ensure USB 3.0 or higher if available. Check Device Manager (Windows) or System Information (Mac) to see if the device appears. Install drivers if needed.
Use the online webcam test to verify your camera setup.