TestMySetupAll tests

Home / Guides / Chrome camera

Camera troubleshooting

Camera not working in Chrome?

Work through these checks in order. Most Chrome camera failures come from a blocked site permission, the wrong webcam being selected, or computer-level access being off.

Fastest first step

Open the camera control near Chrome’s address bar, allow camera access for the site, reload the page, then run the camera test.

1. Confirm whether Chrome can see the camera

Start with a browser-only check. If a live preview appears, the camera and Chrome permission are working; the remaining problem is likely inside the meeting app or website you are trying to use.

Run the private camera test

The preview stays in your browser and is not recorded or uploaded.

Start camera test

2. Allow camera access for the site

  1. Open the website that needs your camera.
  2. Select the site controls icon beside the address bar.
  3. Set Camera to Allow.
  4. Reload the page and try again.

If the site remains blocked, open Chrome Settings → Privacy and security → Site settings → Camera. Review blocked sites and remove the old exception or change it to Allow.

3. Select the correct webcam

In Chrome’s Camera site setting, choose the camera you intend to use. This matters when a laptop camera, USB webcam, virtual camera, or dock is connected at the same time.

4. Check computer permission

Your operating system can block camera access even when Chrome says the site is allowed. Open the computer’s privacy settings, enable camera access for apps and desktop apps, then restart Chrome if prompted.

5. Free the camera and reconnect it

  • Close other meeting, recording, and camera apps.
  • Unplug and reconnect a USB webcam.
  • Exit the call, restart Chrome, and rejoin.
  • If needed, restart the computer.

Work or school computer? An administrator may control Chrome camera settings. If the setting is locked, contact your IT team.

Based on Google Chrome’s official camera and microphone guidance.