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Where is a Webcam in Device Manager?

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Written by:

Lawrence Bonk
Updated August 30, 2022

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If you are new to the world of streaming video, you may wonder where the webcam is in the device manager. Even the best webcams, after all, require occasional adjustments, which means you’ll need access to the device manager. So, where is the webcam within your computer’s device manager, and what are some troubleshooting tips? Keep reading to find out.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Microsoft’s Device Manager is a component of Windows that allows you to adjust the parameters and privacy settings of connected devices, including the built-in webcam.
  • If your camera doesn’t show up on the list of connected devices, try updating the correct driver software or looking for Windows updates.
  • You can also manually add your webcam to the list of approved devices, which involves some simple coding.

What is Device Manager?

Device Manager is part of the Windows operating system and allows users to make various settings adjustments, which comes in handy when wondering why a webcam is not working. Apple has a version of this located in settings that offer similar features, so you can get to the bottom of why a webcam is green.

Insider Tip

Downloading and installing an entirely new operating system is an option, though only as a last resort.

Accessing this software cannot show you where to put a webcam, but it can help with general troubleshooting. It is worth noting that Microsoft’s Device Manager only applies to physical webcams if you are learning about simulated webcams.

Where is a Webcam in Device Manager?

When you open up this manager, it should show a list of all connected devices, including the webcam. If the camera is not showing up, but other devices are, try unplugging the camera and plugging it back in. Resetting the computer is also an option here. In short, the camera should just be there, with no input on your end. If not, it could indicate a more complex issue.

How to Add a Camera in Device Manager

If your camera is not showing up in the manager, despite multiple troubleshooting attempts, you will have to add it manually. Don’t worry. This is not as hard as it seems.

Update the Webcam Driver

Before going ahead with this process, update the webcam driver to see if that fixes the issue, as it does in many cases. Download and install this new software according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and then test the manager software again.

STAT: When your camera isn’t working in Windows 11, it might be missing drivers after a recent update. It’s also possible that your antivirus program is blocking the camera, your privacy settings don’t allow camera access for some apps, or there’s a problem with the app you want to use. (source)

Adding a Camera Manually

Here are the steps to manually add a camera to the Windows management software.

  1. Open the “Run” text dialog box by holding down the Windows key and “R.”
  2. Type “devmgmt.msc” which should open up a dedicated manager window.
  3. Click “View/Show Hidden Devices.”
  4. Click “Add Legacy Hardware” or “Add Hardware” and follow the prompts.
  5. Your camera should now appear in the list of connected devices.

Device Manager Webcam FAQs

How do I allow apps access to the camera using privacy settings?

You can change privacy settings via the device driver download software or the app settings page. Experiment with both until you find what works.

How do you disable your webcam?

Disable imaging devices is a matter of heading into the settings via search box and making the appropriate changes. For any issues, such as an error message, contact an online community for developers.

How do you disable your microphone?

In addition to adjusting imaging devices, you can also disable microphones by heading to the settings via the search box. Follow the prompts and if you encounter an error message, reach out to your current community.
Lawrence Bonk Profile image
Lawrence Bonk
Lawrence Bonk is a copywriter with a decade of experience in the tech space, with columns appearing in Engadget, Huffington Post and CBS, among others. He has a cat named Cinnamon.