Why is my webcam not detected on Windows 11?

Usually camera privacy settings are blocking it, another app is using it, or the driver needs updating or reinstalling.

How do I test if my webcam works?

Open a browser webcam test and allow access. If you see your live video, the camera works and the issue is app-specific.

My webcam worked yesterday and not today. What changed?

A Windows update can reset camera permissions or the driver. Re-check the camera privacy settings and update the driver.

Webcam Not Detected on Windows 11? How to Fix It

Quick answer: If your webcam is not detected on Windows 11, the usual causes are camera privacy settings blocking access, another app holding the camera, or a missing/outdated driver. Work through them in order and the camera normally returns.

Confirm whether the camera works at all: open the webcam test and allow access. If you see yourself, the camera is fine and a specific app is the problem.

1. Check Windows camera privacy settings

Settings → Privacy & security → Camera. Turn on Camera access , Let apps access your camera , and the toggle for the specific app (and "desktop apps" if you use one).

2. Close apps using the camera

Only one app can use the camera at a time. Close Zoom, Teams, Skype, the Camera app, or browser tabs that may hold it, then try again.

3. Update or reinstall the driver

Right-click Start → Device Manager.
Expand Cameras (or Imaging devices).
Right-click your camera → Update driver. If that fails, choose Uninstall device, then restart — Windows reinstalls it.

4. External webcam checks

For USB webcams, try a different USB port (preferably directly on the PC, not a hub) and a different cable. Then run the webcam test to confirm it is detected.