Webcam Not Working
A webcam that stops working prevents video calls and recordings. This page covers the most common causes and fixes. Start with browser permissions, then check system settings and hardware connections.
If you need to check your camera quickly, run the webcam test.
Check Browser Permissions
Browser permissions are the most common cause of webcam issues. Each browser handles permissions differently.
- Click the lock or camera icon in your browser's address bar
- Set camera permission to "Allow"
- Refresh the page after changing permissions
- If no icon appears, check browser settings for site permissions
Use the online webcam test to verify permissions are working. If the test shows no video, permissions are likely the issue.
Check Physical Privacy Covers
Many laptops have sliding privacy covers over the camera. Ensure the cover is open.
- Look for a sliding cover above your laptop screen
- Slide the cover open to reveal the camera
- Check for stickers or tape covering the camera
- Remove any physical obstructions
Verify Camera Device Selection
Your system may be using the wrong camera. Check which camera device is active.
- Windows: Settings → Privacy → Camera → Check which apps can access camera
- Mac: System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Camera → Verify browser is checked
- Disconnect and reconnect USB webcams if they're not appearing
- Test each available camera device to find the working one
Close Other Applications
Only one application can access your webcam at a time. Other apps may be blocking access.
- Close Zoom, Teams, Skype, Discord, or other communication apps
- Check Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac) for background processes
- Restart your browser after closing other applications
- Try the webcam test again
Check System Camera Settings
System-level camera permissions may be disabled. Verify these are enabled. For Chrome-specific issues, see the guide on webcam not detected in Chrome.
- Windows: Settings → Privacy → Camera → Ensure "Allow apps to access your camera" is enabled
- Mac: System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Camera → Check your browser
- Restart your browser after changing system settings
- Test the webcam again
Update Camera Drivers
Outdated or corrupted camera drivers can prevent webcam detection.
- Windows: Device Manager → Imaging devices → Right-click camera → Update driver
- Mac: System Preferences → Software Update → Install any available updates
- Restart your computer after updating drivers
- Test the webcam again
Test Hardware Connection
Physical connection issues can prevent webcam detection.
- Unplug and replug USB webcams
- Try a different USB port
- Test the webcam on another computer
- Check for visible damage to cables or connectors
- For built-in cameras, check if they appear in Device Manager
Verify Webcam Works
After trying these steps, use the online webcam test to confirm the device is working. The test shows live video feed and allows you to verify camera detection.
Run the webcam test to verify your camera setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my webcam not working?
Webcam issues are usually caused by denied browser permissions, physical privacy covers, wrong camera device selection, or another application using the camera. Check browser permissions first, then verify system settings.
How do I fix webcam not working in Chrome?
Click the lock icon in Chrome's address bar, select Site Settings, then set Camera to Allow. If that doesn't work, go to chrome://settings/content/camera and ensure camera access is enabled globally.
My webcam works in one app but not another. Why?
Only one application can access your webcam at a time. Close other apps using the camera, then try the app again. Also check if the app has its own camera permission settings.
Use the online webcam test to confirm everything is working.