How to Fix Webcam or Microphone Not Working in Video Calls

🔧Detailed Step-by-Step Fixes

Solution 1: Set the Correct Default Devices

Windows might be sending audio to the wrong microphone or showing video from the wrong camera:

For Microphone:

1. Press Windows + I and go to System > Sound
2. Under Input, click the dropdown and select your microphone
3. Click Start test under Microphone test and speak—you should see the bar move
4. If the bar doesn't move, try selecting a different microphone from the dropdown

For Camera:

1. Open your video call app settings (usually in Settings > Audio/Video)
2. Look for the camera selection dropdown
3. Try each camera option until you see yourself

Solution 2: Update or Reinstall Webcam Drivers

Outdated webcam drivers often stop working after Windows updates:

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager
2. Expand Cameras or Imaging devices
3. Right-click your webcam and select Update driver
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers
5. If no update is found, visit your PC manufacturer's website and download the latest webcam driver
6. If you have an external webcam (Logitech, etc.), visit the webcam manufacturer's website instead

If updating doesn't work, try reinstalling:

1. In Device Manager, right-click your webcam and select Uninstall device
2. Check the box to delete the driver and confirm
3. Restart your computer—Windows will reinstall the driver automatically

Solution 3: Check Antivirus Camera Blocking

Some antivirus software blocks webcam access for security:

• Open your antivirus software (Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, etc.)
• Look for settings related to "Webcam Protection" or "Camera Privacy"
• Either disable it or add your video call app to the allowed list
• Restart your video call app

Solution 4: Allow Desktop Apps to Access Camera and Microphone

Some apps like Zoom and Teams are desktop programs that need special permission:

1. Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Camera
2. Scroll down to Let desktop apps access your camera
3. Make sure this is turned On
4. Do the same for Microphone: Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone
5. Turn on Let desktop apps access your microphone

Solution 5: Close Other Apps Using Your Camera

Only one app can use your webcam at a time:

1. Close all apps that might be using your camera (other video call apps, camera apps, etc.)
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
3. Look for any apps that might be using the camera (Skype, Camera app, etc.)
4. Right-click them and select End task
5. Restart your video call app