Problem

Resolution

In Windows there are a system of permissions certain components including the onboard webcam must have in order to operate in applications that use them.  If permissions are not granted the webcam may not work and produce no image.  If there are problems with the webcam checking permissions is a useful step.

Preparation

1. Some laptops may have a mechanical privacy shutter, if the laptop has one of these check that the shutter is not engaged,
   
2. Then determine the app or apps that use the camera to test if the problem is with a specific app or possibly all of them.  Please make a note of any that do not have camera display.
   
3. Use the steps below to allow camera permissions to be enabled for the apps that you use. 
   

Windows 11

1. Click Start > Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera.
2. The click the toggle to the right of Camera Access.
3. Then make sure that any Windows Store apps listed below have access which you need to use are enabled.
4. Scroll down to Let Desktop Apps Access Your Camera and click the toggle to enable the camera for desktop apps such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
   

Windows 10

1. Click Start > Settings > Privacy > Camera.
2. In Allow access to the camera on this device, select Change and make sure Camera access for this device is turned on.
3. Then scroll to Allow Apps to Access Your Camera then click the toggle to turn this on.
4. Scroll to the heading Choose Which Store Apps Can Access Your Camera. Then make sure you have permission enabled for any Microsoft Store apps you wish to use with the camera.
5. Scroll to the heading Allow Desktop Apps To Access Your Camera, click the toggle to enable camera acces for desktop apps such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom.