Fix it
Webcam Not Working? 4 Fixes to Try
Webcam not detected or showing black? Four researched fixes covering permissions, drivers, apps, and hardware.
A dead webcam is almost always a software or permission issue rather than broken hardware. Work through these fixes in order.
Camera not detected at all
Try a different USB port, preferably USB 3.0 directly on the computer rather than through a hub. In Device Manager on Windows or System Information on Mac, check whether the camera appears; if it shows with a warning icon, the driver needs reinstalling from the manufacturer's site.
Black screen in video apps
Check the OS privacy settings: both Windows and macOS can block camera access per app, and this is the most common cause of a working camera showing black. Also confirm no other app is holding the camera open, since most webcams serve only one app at a time, and remove any physical shutter or lens cap.
Image is dark or grainy
Add light in front of your face and avoid bright windows behind you, which force the exposure down. In the camera's settings, disable auto low-light compensation if it is just boosting gain into noise, and set exposure manually if the app allows it.
Camera works in one app but not another
Grant camera permission to the failing app in system settings, then fully quit and reopen it. Some conferencing apps cache device lists, so also check the app's own camera selector to confirm the right device is chosen rather than a virtual camera left over from other software.
Questions, answered
Why does my webcam freeze after a few minutes?
Overheating, USB power saving, or driver instability are the usual causes. Disable USB selective suspend in power settings, keep the camera ventilated, and update to the latest driver.
Can antivirus software block my webcam?
Yes. Some security suites include webcam protection that blocks access by default. Check the suite's privacy or webcam-shield settings if the OS permissions look correct.