This article provides information on how to trouble shoot camera issues.

Instructions

1. Check the following first:
   These sound simple, but they’re very common causes:

   • Is there a physical camera cover or shutter? Many laptops have a sliding privacy cover near the camera.

   • Is the camera plugged in? (for external webcams). Try a different USB port.

   • Restart the computer. This often clears camera lockups caused by apps.

2. Make Sure the Camera Isn’t in Use by Another App
   Only one app can usually use the camera at a time.
   Close apps like:

   • Zoom

   • Microsoft Teams

   • Skype

   • Web browsers (Edge, Chrome, etc.)

   • Then reopen the app you’re trying to use.

3. Check Privacy & Permissions (Very Common Issue) On Windows 10 / 11
   Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Camera
   Make sure:

   • Camera access = ON

   • Let apps access your camera = ON

   • The specific app (Zoom, Teams, browser) is allowed

4. Test the Camera Outside the App Windows
   Open the Camera app from the Start menu

   If it doesn’t work here, the issue is system-level

5. macOS

   Open FaceTime or Photo Booth

   If it works there, the problem is app-specific