My webcam stopped working for all apps that use it

Hey Neil,

That was a good suggestion, I hadn't thought of trying that until reading this. Sadly that didn't work either though. I ended up uninstalling my Norton Security and completely disabling my firewall and windows defender and it still didn't work. If there's any other solutions you can think of or someone who may be able to help let me know. It would be much appreciated!

Ethan

Hi Ethan, my name is Neil, I'm an independent adviser and a Windows 10 user like you.

Sorry you're having trouble getting your webcam to work.

There's one thing I noticed you didn't list that you may or may not have tried yet. But I thought it was worth a try. I can always release your question so another adviser can help you if my suggestion doesn't prove to be of any help.

ANTI-VIRUS & FIREWALL

Check your anti-virus software for any Privacy Protection settings it may have. Some anti-virus programs (like Kaspersky) block your webcam by default to stop unauthorised monitoring.

Also check your firewall software for Privacy Settings and also make sure that any Apps that want to use your camera are allowed to pass through your firewall.

Let me know how you get on.

OK Ethan.

Your current AVerMedia 313 Live Streamer Webcam is Windows 10 compatible and the privacy shutter is VERY noticeable as it slides right over the lens, so there's no missing that!

Have you tried downloading the software for your cam and the latest firmware too?

Although it does state there is no software 'needed' to get it to work on Windows 10, I'm thinking if you install their software then you might find it 'forces' Windows to see it....especially the firmware update which updates the internal software of the webcam itself.

You can find both of these downloads here, and simply click on the "Download" link at the top of the page: https://www.avermedia.com/us/product-detail/PW313

Please note, there are TWO version of the AVerMedia CamEngine software. One is the full version and has advanced features and one is a "Lite" version, which was released a little after the full version.

To find the Firmware, simply click the "Firmware" link in the Download section.

Let me know if this helps at all.

**NOTE**

Standard Disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft websites. The pages appear to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the sites that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the sites before you decide to download and install it.

Hi Ethan,

It sounds to me like you have covered all the usual fixes i normally suggest and this fixes 90% of the problems.

I have a template I normally post with a list of fixes on it. I'll paste it for you below, even though it sounds like you have run through everything already. There may be something you have missed? So, apologies up front for repeat information!

Here goes:

WEBCAM BUTTONS

If you are using a laptop, does it have a webcam key you can press (usually on the one of the F Keys)? It normally has a picture on the F key that represents a webcam.

Normally pressing and holding the Fn button (function button) + the associated F Key will turn on / off your webcam when it is pressed. Sometimes you don't need to press the Fn key and just the F Key to cycle it On or Off.

Other computers can have a physical hardware button you need to press or slide into an On position.

Some laptops have a sliding lens cover that when closed or not fully opened properly will prevent your webcam from working.

If this does not work try the following:

PRIVACY SETTINGS

On your keyboard, can you press the Windows Key + I to open Settings.

Now click on Privacy.

On the left hand side under "App permissions", click on Camera.

First of all, make sure where it says "Camera access for this device is ON). If it says OFF, click the Change button and turn it ON.

Underneath this setting, make sure the slider under "Allow apps to access your camera" is turned ON.

Then under "Choose which Microsoft Store apps can access your camera" make sure the sliders for the Apps you want to use your camera are all turned ON.

Finally, make sure "Allow Desktop Apps to access your camera" is turned ON.

Close the settings and then try and use your camera again.

If this does not work try the following:

ANTI-VIRUS & FIREWALL

Can you also check your anti-virus software for any Privacy Protection settings it may have. Some anti-virus programs (like Kaspersky) block your webcam by default to stop unauthorised monitoring.

Also check your firewall software for Privacy Settings and also make sure that any Apps that want to use your camera are allowed to pass through your firewall.

If this does not work try the following:

UNINSTALL / REINSTALL

If you can Right Click your Start button and then choose Device Manager from the list.

In Device Manager, click the View menu and select "Show hidden devices"

Look for your webcam in the list. It might be under >Imaging Devices or >Other Devices. Click on the arrow > next to a category to expand that category until you find your webcam.

When you find your Webcam, Right Click on the webcam and choose "Uninstall Device"

Make sure you check the box to "Delete the driver software for this device".

Click the Uninstall button.

Now close down Device Manager and reboot your computer. Your computer will reinstall the webcam driver as it reboots.

When you have rebooted, check to see if your problem is resolved.

Let me know how you get on.

adjust the privacy settings to allow the apps to access available webcam.

 temporarily disable all antivirus software.