Built-in Laptop camera stopped working; not present

[nikromancy]

Victus by HP Gaming Laptop 15 -

Noticed that my built-in camera was no longer present within windows settings nor visible in device manager.

Not sure what to do because I take video appointments online.

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @nikromancy,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

I understand your built-in laptop camera has stopped working and is no longer visible in Windows settings or the Device Manager, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:
 

1. Check the Camera Privacy Settings

Ensure that the camera is not disabled through privacy settings:

1. Windows Settings: Go to Settings > Privacy > Camera.
2. Allow Apps to Access Your Camera: Make sure this option is turned on.
3. Choose Which Apps Can Access Your Camera: Ensure that the apps you use for video appointments are allowed to access the camera.

2. Update Camera Drivers

1. Device Manager: Open Device Manager (Win + X > Device Manager).
2. Scan for Hardware Changes: Right-click on your computer name at the top of the Device Manager list and select Scan for hardware changes.
3. Update Drivers:
   • If the camera appears, right-click on it and select Update driver.
   • Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

3. Reinstall Camera Drivers

If the camera still doesn’t appear:

1. Hidden Devices: In Device Manager, click on View > Show hidden devices to ensure it’s not hidden.
2. Uninstall Driver: If you find the camera, right-click and uninstall it. Then restart your laptop, and Windows should reinstall the driver automatically.

4. Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

Sometimes, the camera can be disabled in the BIOS/UEFI settings:

1. Restart Your Laptop: During the boot process, press the key (often F2, F10, Delete, or Esc) to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings.
2. Check for Camera Settings: Look for any settings related to the built-in camera and ensure it is enabled.
3. Save and Exit: Save any changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings.

5. Run the Windows Troubleshooter

1. Settings: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Find and Run Troubleshooters: Select Additional troubleshooters.
3. Camera: Find the Camera troubleshooter and run it.

6. Check for Windows Updates

1. Settings: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Check for Updates: Make sure your Windows is up to date as updates can sometimes resolve hardware issues.

7. Software Conflicts

1. Background Programs: Close any unnecessary programs that might be using the camera.
2. Anti-virus Software: Check if your anti-virus software is blocking the camera.

Refer to this document: Victus by HP Gaming Laptop 15-fa0000 (680A7AV)

HP PCs - Troubleshoot the webcam (Windows 11 and Windows 10)

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.