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Camera device is not enabled

Engdahl, Jonas (DI SW GS&CS EU NO GCO DEL1) 0 Reputation points
2026-05-13T13:29:12.0766667+00:00

How can I overcome the issue of not beeing able to use my laptop camera. The settings indicate use of function key 10 but this do not help. The message: "Your camera is reporting that it is blocked or turned off by a switch or button on your device...."

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Settings

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Engdahl, Jonas (DI SW GS&CS EU NO GCO DEL1) 0 Reputation points
2026-05-21T07:25:16.58+00:00

I have now found the physical shutter slide button. Must have been accidentaly pushed.

You can close this as solved. Sorry for the inconvenience.

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  1. Ivan B 112.7K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-05-13T14:03:14.34+00:00

    Hi,

    If possible, do you have any third-party antivirus software? If so, which one?

    If it's a laptop, what is the laptop model?

    Access msinfo32.exe in the search bar, take a screenshot, and post it here.

    Check the keyboard between the F1 and F12 keys to see if there's one with a camera icon. Press it to see if it unlocks. If that doesn't work, try Fn+F and the key with the camera icon.

    Also check if it's a laptop; there should be a privacy palette located on top of the camera.

    Thanks

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  2. AI answer

    2026-05-13T13:29:29.9366667+00:00

    Use the physical camera controls on the device, not just the Fn+F10 key, because Windows reports that the camera is blocked or turned off by a hardware switch or shutter.

    Follow these steps:

    1. Check for a hardware camera switch or slider
      • Look along the edges of the laptop (sides or front) for a small sliding switch with a camera icon.
      • Move the switch to the “on” or “open” position.
    2. Check the keyboard for a dedicated camera key
      • Besides the Fn+F10 combination, some laptops have:
        • A separate key with a camera icon.
        • A function key that only works when pressed together with Fn.
      • Press the camera key (or Fn + that key) once to toggle the camera on.
    3. Check for a privacy shutter on the camera itself
      • Look directly at the camera lens above the screen.
      • If there is a small slider or shutter over the lens, slide it open so the lens is visible.

    After turning on the physical switch/slider or key, reopen the camera app or the app that uses the camera and verify that the image appears.

    If the camera is still not working after confirming all physical switches and shutters are open, run the Windows camera troubleshooter from the Get Help app to automatically detect and fix common camera issues.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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