My webcam isn't working and how do I switch to another camera on a Windows computer, in Microsoft Teams and Zoom?

Troubleshooting and switching webcams

Windows Computer

  1. Some laptop inbuilt webcams have a privacy cover indicated by a red circle when it is closed. Ensure the privacy cover is off when you want to use it.
  2. In Teams or Zoom, try switching the camera to another camera or the Virtual Camera and back again.
  3. If external, connect your webcam to your computer.
  4. Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard to open the Quick Link menu.
  5. Click on "Device Manager".
  6. Expand the "Cameras" or "Imaging devices" category.
  7. Right-click on the webcam you want to use and select "Enable" if it's disabled. If you don't see the device you want to use, make sure it is properly connected to your computer or try using another USB port.
  8. Right-click on the enabled webcam and select "Set as Default Device" to make it the default webcam.
  9. Close the Device Manager and launch your preferred video conferencing app to start using the webcam.
Camera doesn't work in Windows >


Microsoft Teams

  1. Click on the three-dot icon, located on the top right corner of the screen.
  2. Select "Settings" from the drop-down menu.
  3. Click on "Devices" from the left-hand side menu.
  4. Under the "Camera" section, select the desired camera device from the drop-down menu.
  5. Test the camera input by clicking on "Make a test call" or joining a Teams meeting.
My camera isn't working in Teams >

Zoom

  1. Click on your profile picture or initials, located on the top right corner of the screen.
  2. Select "Settings" from the drop-down menu.
  3. Click on the "Video" tab from the left-hand side menu.
  4. Under the "Camera" section, select the desired camera device from the drop-down menu.
  5. Test the camera input by clicking on "Test Video" or joining a Zoom meeting.
Troubleshooting camera issues during a meeting >


Note: Make sure that the selected webcam is properly connected to your computer and that its drivers are installed and up-to-date to ensure clear video input.