Tech Fix Daily

HP Laptop Camera Not Working: Fix Webcam Detection & Driver

 

Is your HP laptop’s built-in camera refusing to work—no video feed, flashing light, or “camera not found” errors? Whether it’s a privacy setting or a driver conflict, this guide walks you through every fix to get your webcam back online.

🔍 Step 1: Check for Physical Camera Switch or Shutter Key

• Some HP laptops have a privacy switch near the webcam or a keyboard shortcut like Fn + F8 or Fn + F10
• Toggle the switch or key to re-enable the camera
• Look for a webcam LED light—if it’s on, the camera may be disabled

🧠 A physical shutter or switch can block the camera even if software settings are correct

⚙️ Step 2: Verify Camera Privacy Settings

• Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera
• Ensure Camera access is ON
• Enable Let apps access your camera
• Scroll down and confirm that apps like Camera, Teams, or Zoom have permission

🔐 Windows may block camera access globally or per app

🧰 Step 3: Update or Reinstall Camera Drivers

• Press Windows + X → Device Manager → Cameras (or Imaging Devices)
• Right-click your webcam → Update Driver
• If issue persists:

• Right-click → Uninstall Device
• Check “Delete the driver software” if available
• Restart to auto-reinstall

🔧 Corrupted or outdated drivers are a top cause of webcam failure

🧪 Step 4: Test in Multiple Apps

• Open Camera app, Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet
• If it works in one app but not others, check individual app permissions
• If it fails in all apps, it’s likely a driver or hardware issue

🧬 Step 5: Check BIOS Settings

• Restart and press F10 repeatedly to enter BIOS
• Look for Integrated Camera or Webcam setting
• Make sure it’s Enabled
• Save changes and exit

⚙️ Some BIOS versions allow disabling the webcam for security reasons

🧼 Step 6: Reset the Camera App

• Go to Settings → Apps → Installed Apps → Camera → Advanced Options
• Click Reset
• Restart the laptop and test again

🧯 Resets app-level glitches without affecting other settings

🧪 Step 7: Run Windows Troubleshooter

• Go to Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Additional troubleshooters
• Select Camera and follow prompts

🧠 Windows can auto-detect and fix common webcam issues

🧯 Step 8: Clean the Camera Lens

• Gently wipe the lens with a microfiber cloth
• Check for dust, stickers, or privacy covers blocking the view

• 💡 Sometimes it’s just a physical obstruction