The fastest way to turn on your camera

Your PC camera is usually off by default for privacy. To turn it on, open the Camera app — search for "Camera" in your Windows search bar (bottom left of your screen) and click the app when it appears. The camera will set up when ready and show a live preview on your screen.

If you don't see a Camera app, your PC may not have one built in. In that case, you can use any video calling app that has camera access — Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, or Discord will all turn on your camera when you open them and grant permission.

On a Mac, open Photo Booth (search for it in Spotlight by pressing Command + Space) or use FaceTime, which will set up the camera when you open it.

Key Takeaways

  • The Camera app in Windows or Photo Booth on Mac will turn on your built-in camera with a single click.
  • Your camera may be disabled in BIOS or device settings — check Device Manager on Windows if the Camera app won't open.
  • Some laptops have a physical camera shutter or a keyboard shortcut to disable the camera for privacy.
  • If your camera still won't turn on after checking settings, the hardware may be disconnected or faulty, and you may need a technician to inspect it.

Check if your camera is disabled in settings

If the Camera app opens but shows a black screen, your camera may be turned off in Windows settings. Go to Settings (press Windows key + I), then click Privacy & Security on the left side. Scroll down and click Camera.

Make sure the toggle at the top that says Camera access is turned on (it should be blue). Below that, check that the toggle for individual apps is also on if you want to use the camera with a specific program like Zoom or Skype.

On a Mac, open System Settings, click Privacy & Security on the left, then click Camera. You'll see a list of apps that have requested camera access — make sure the app you want to use has a checkmark next to it.

Look for a physical camera switch or shutter

Some laptops have a physical camera shutter — a small sliding cover or button above the screen that blocks the lens. If your camera won't turn on, check whether this shutter is closed. Slide it to the side or press it to open it.

A few laptop models also have a keyboard shortcut to disable the camera. Check your laptop's manual or search "[your laptop model] disable camera" to see if a function key combination turns it off. If you find one, press it again to turn the camera back on.

Restart the camera driver in Device Manager

If your camera still won't turn on, the driver (the software that controls the camera) may need to be restarted. On Windows, right-click the Start button and click Device Manager. Look for Cameras in the list and click the arrow next to it to expand it.

You should see your camera listed — it usually has a name like "Integrated Camera" or the manufacturer's name. Right-click it and click Disable device. Wait a few seconds, then right-click it again and click Enable device. The camera should now be active.

If you don't see a Cameras section at all, your PC may not have a built-in camera, or the driver is missing. In that case, search for your laptop model and "camera driver" online to read the correct driver from the manufacturer's website.

Check BIOS settings for a disabled camera

On some PCs, the camera can be disabled in BIOS — the system settings that run before Windows starts. This is less common but worth checking if nothing else works. To enter BIOS, restart your PC and press a specific key repeatedly as it boots (usually Delete, F2, F10, or F12 — the key varies by manufacturer).

Once in BIOS, look for a section called Integrated Peripherals, Onboard Devices, or Camera. If you find a camera setting, make sure it's set to Enabled. Save your changes and exit. This process is technical, so if you're unsure, it's better to skip this step or ask a technician for help.

What to do if your camera hardware is broken

If you've checked all the settings and the camera still won't turn on, the hardware itself may be faulty. A disconnected ribbon cable inside the laptop, a failed sensor, or a broken USB port (if you're using an external camera) can all prevent the camera from working.

At this point, you have two options: take the laptop to a repair shop so a technician can open it and check the connection, or buy an external USB camera and plug it into a USB port. External cameras are inexpensive and will work when ready if your PC recognizes it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my camera showing a black screen even though it's turned on?

The camera may be blocked by a physical shutter, or another app may be using it. Close all other apps that use the camera and check for a physical cover. If the lens itself is dirty, gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth. If it's still black, the camera sensor may be faulty.

Can I turn on my camera without opening an app?

No — your camera needs an app to display video. The Camera app is the simplest option, but Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, or any video calling app will work. The camera itself has no on/off button; it's controlled entirely through software.

Is it normal for my camera to be off by default?

Yes. Most PCs ship with camera access turned off in settings for privacy. This is intentional — you have to turn it on yourself before any app can use it. If you want to disable it again after use, go back to Settings and toggle Camera access off.

What if I don't have a Camera app on my Windows PC?

Older versions of Windows don't include a built-in Camera app. Use any video calling app instead — Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, or Discord will all set up your camera. You can also read the Camera app from the Microsoft Store if you prefer a dedicated camera tool.

Can I use an external camera if my laptop camera doesn't work?

Yes. Plug a USB camera into any available USB port on your PC. Windows and Mac will recognize it automatically, and you can use it with the Camera app or any video calling app. External cameras are affordable and often better quality than built-in ones.