videocam_off
Webcam Troubleshooting Guide
Is your camera black, blocked, or not detected? Here are the most common fixes for webcam issues on Windows.
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Fix 1: Privacy Shutters & Switches
The most common reason for a black screen is a physical blocker.
- Check your camera lens for a slider cover. Slide it open.
- On laptops, look for a dedicated F-key (e.g., F8 or Fn+F8) with a camera icon that toggles the camera on/off.
Fix 2: Privacy Settings
Windows might be blocking apps from accessing the camera.
- Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Camera.
- Ensure "Camera access" is ON and "Let apps access your camera" is also ON.
Fix 3: Lighting Flickering (50Hz/60Hz)
If your video pulses or flickers, the camera frequency doesn't match your room lighting.
- Open Camera app settings or your webcam driver utility.
- Change "Flicker Reduction" from 50Hz to 60Hz (or vice versa) until the flickering stops.
Fix 4: No Sound? (Microphone Issues)
If your video works but audio is missing, check your input device.
- Go to Settings → System → Sound and check "Input".
- Ensure the correct microphone is selected and volume is up.
- Test your microphone: Use our Microphone Test Tool