How to Troubleshoot the Webcam on a Laptop
- 1). Dip one end of a cotton swab in hydrogen peroxide. Gently clean the camera's lens, rubbing in a circular motion. Immediately dry the lens using another swab to avoid spots on the lens.
- 2). Open an application that uses the webcam. Turn the camera on using the "File" menu at the top and choosing an individual to attempt a video chat with. Click "Start Chat." Take note of whether the webcam works or not. If not, it could still be a software issue.
- 3). Close the video chat software. Go to "Start," navigate to "Control Panel" and choose "Programs." Click on the "Programs and Features" button. Click once on the program to highlight it, then click "Uninstall." For Mac computers, open the "Applications" folder, locate the program and drag it to the Trash.
- 4). Turn your computer off, wait two minutes and then power it back on. Reinstall your video chat software. Attempt another video chat. If the webcam still does not work, you are facing a hardware issue. Contact your computer's manufacturer to determine the best way of repairing your laptop's webcam. If your computer is still under warranty, the repairs may even be free.