Webcam not working on Windows 11
A webcam that won't turn on, shows a black screen, or "isn't detected" on Windows 11 usually comes down to camera permission, another app holding the camera, or a privacy shutter. Try these, then confirm with the live preview.
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Step-by-step fix
- Check the camera permission in Settings → Privacy & security → Camera and allow your browser/app.
- Close any other app that might be using the camera (Zoom, Teams, Discord) — only one app can hold it at a time.
- Make sure there's no physical privacy shutter or tape over the lens, and that the camera is enabled in Device Manager / system settings.
- Run the CheckMyMic webcam test — you should see a live preview, resolution and FPS.
- Still black? Update the camera driver and restart Windows 11.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my webcam a black screen on Windows 11?
A black preview almost always means another app already holds the camera, or a privacy shutter is closed. Close other video apps and check the lens, then re-run the webcam test.
How do I know my camera is detected on Windows 11?
Open the CheckMyMic webcam test and press Start camera — if it lists a device and shows a preview, it's detected. "No camera detected" means a driver or connection issue.
Fixed it? Confirm with a quick test.
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