The Problem

Teams or the Camera app says it cannot find the camera, or the preview stays black. On laptops this is often a privacy toggle, a function-key shutter, or the wrong camera selected—not a dead sensor.

Only the mic failed? See microphone not working. This page is video only.

The Fix

Step 1: Windows Camera Privacy

Settings → Privacy & security → Camera → turn access On for the device and for desktop apps (Zoom, Teams, Chrome). Allow the specific app in the list below.

Step 2: Pick the Right Camera in the App

Many laptops ship with an IR camera and a main webcam. In Zoom: Settings → Video → correct device. Close OBS or another app that might be holding the camera open.

Step 3: Hardware Shutter and Fn Keys

Slide privacy shutter on the bezel if present.
Fn + camera icon (Dell, HP, Lenovo vary)—toggle until the LED turns on.

Step 4: Device Manager

Win + X → Device Manager → Cameras → enable if disabled → Update driver. No luck? Uninstall device, reboot, then install the camera driver from the laptop maker's site.

Step 5: Troubleshooter

Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Camera → Run.

Still Black in Every App?

Test the built-in Camera app. If a cheap USB webcam works on the same PC, the internal module or cable may need repair—common after a drop.

How to Fix a Webcam Not Working in Windows 11