How to Fix Webcam Not Working in Windows 11 Apps (Quick Guide)

Video conferencing has become a vital tool for communication in today’s digital age. Whether for professional meetings or personal catch-ups, a fully functioning webcam is essential. However, running into issues with your webcam on Windows 11 can be frustrating. From driver conflicts to privacy settings, there are various reasons why your camera may not be working correctly. Fortunately, this guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve common problems quickly, ensuring seamless video calls and streaming experiences.

Run the Windows Camera Troubleshooter

1- Access Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings menu. In the left pane, click on System, then select Troubleshoot.

2- Initiate the Troubleshooter: Click on Other troubleshooters. Locate the Camera section and click Run. The troubleshooter will automatically detect and resolve camera-related issues, addressing misconfigurations and conflicts.

Check Camera Permissions in Privacy Settings

1- Open Privacy Settings: Use Windows + I to open Settings and navigate to Privacy & security.

2- Configure Camera Access: Click on Camera and ensure the toggle for camera access is turned on. This setting must be enabled for apps to access your webcam.

3- Review App Permissions: Check the list of installed apps and ensure that camera access is granted for any applications you wish to use. For desktop applications, also enable the option for desktop apps to access your camera.

Correct permissions are crucial for maintaining privacy while allowing necessary applications to function properly. Incorrect settings can lead to issues like blank screens or error messages.

Test the Camera with the Built-in Camera App

1- Launch the Camera App: Click the Start menu, type Camera, and launch the app.

2- Allow Camera Access: If prompted, grant camera access and observe if the preview works. If the camera functions here but not in other apps, the issue likely pertains to those specific applications.

This step confirms your camera hardware and drivers are operational, helping isolate the issue to either system-wide or app-specific causes.

Verify Physical Connections and Camera Switches

1. Check Connections: For external webcams, unplug and securely reconnect the device to a different USB port, ideally a USB 3.0 port for stable power delivery.
2. Inspect Physical Switches: If you’re using a laptop, examine your device for a physical camera switch, function keys, or privacy shutters. Make sure these are set to “on” and verify the camera lens is unobstructed.
3. Test on Another Device: If possible, test the camera on a different computer to rule out hardware failure.

Physical issues such as loose connections or disabled switches can prevent Windows from detecting your camera, regardless of software setups.

Update, Roll Back, or Reinstall Camera Drivers

1- Open Device Manager: Access Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button or pressing Win + X, then selecting Device Manager.

2- Update Drivers: Expand the Cameras section, right-click your webcam, and choose Update driver. Select Search automatically for drivers, allowing Windows to find and install the latest version.

3- Roll Back Driver (If Necessary): If your camera stopped working after a recent update, right-click the camera device, select Properties, navigate to the Driver tab, and click Roll Back Driver if the option is available.

4- Uninstall and Reinstall: For persistent issues, right-click the camera, choose Uninstall device, confirm the removal, and restart your PC. Windows will attempt to reinstall the default driver upon reboot.

Driver conflicts or corruption are common culprits for camera issues, and updating or reinstalling will often restore full functionality.

Check for Windows Updates and Optional Driver Updates

1- Open Windows Update: Press Windows + I and select Windows Update.

2- Look for Updates: Click Check for updates and install any pending updates, including optional ones that may pertain to camera drivers.

3- Restart After Updates: Restart your computer to apply the changes after updates are installed.

Staying updated with system files and drivers is crucial for new hardware functionality, and optional updates frequently include necessary fixes.

Disable Antivirus or Security Software Blocking Camera Access

1. Open Antivirus Application: Launch your antivirus or firewall application from the Start menu.
2. Modify Privacy Settings: Locate settings related to privacy controls or webcam protection. Temporarily disable these features to diagnose the issue.
3. Test the Camera: After adjustments, test the camera in your desired application. If it works, consider whitelisting the camera in your antivirus settings before re-enabling protection.

Sometimes, security software can block camera access, leading to confusion regarding app functionality.

Switch External Webcam to the USB Video Class (UVC) Driver

1- Right-click your external webcam in Device Manager and select Update driver.

2- Choose Browse my computer for drivers, then Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.

3- Select USB Video Device from the list and click Next to install the universal UVC driver.

4- Close Device Manager and test the camera again.

The UVC driver offers compatibility for most USB webcams, especially if manufacturer drivers are subpar or missing.

Reset the Camera App to Default Settings

1- Navigate to Installed Apps: Open Settings and go to Apps > Installed apps. Find the Camera app in the list.

2- Advanced Options: Click the three-dot menu next to the Camera app and select Advanced options.

3- Reset the App: Scroll down and click Reset, confirming if prompted.

4- Restart Your PC: After resetting, restart your device and relaunch the Camera app.

Resetting the app eliminates corrupted settings or temporary issues preventing your camera from functioning correctly.

Conclusion

With the guide provided, you should be well-equipped to troubleshoot and fix your webcam issues on Windows 11 promptly. By systematically following these steps, you can restore camera functionality and enjoy a seamless experience during video calls and streaming activities.