After updating to the Windows 10 April update, some users may experience problems with their camera and microphone not working properly. This can be frustrating, especially when you need these devices for video calls or recording. Fortunately, there are straightforward ways to fix these access issues.
This guide will walk you through simple steps to restore camera and microphone functionality. Each step is explained in detail to help you understand the process and why it is necessary.
You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow these instructions. Just take your time and carefully perform each step.
By the end, you should be able to use your camera and microphone again without problems.
Quick Note Before You Start
- Make sure your Windows 10 is fully updated. Sometimes, missing minor updates can cause device problems.
- Check that your camera and microphone are properly connected if they are external devices.
- Restart your computer before trying the steps below; a simple reboot can fix many issues.
- Confirm that no other app is using the camera or microphone at the same time, which can block access.
Step 1: Check Privacy Settings for Camera and Microphone
Windows 10 has privacy settings that control which apps can access your camera and microphone. Sometimes, the update resets these settings to off.
Here is how to check and enable access:
- Click the Start button and select Settings (the gear icon).
- Go to Privacy.
- On the left side, click Camera.
- Make sure the toggle under “Allow apps to access your camera” is turned On.
- Scroll down and individually enable camera access for the apps you want to use.
- Repeat the same steps for Microphone in the Privacy menu.
Why this matters: If apps don’t have permission, they won’t be able to use your camera or microphone, even if the device works fine otherwise.
Step 2: Update Camera and Microphone Drivers
Drivers are small programs that allow Windows to communicate with your hardware. Outdated or corrupt drivers can cause devices to malfunction after an update.
To update your drivers:
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Cameras section and right-click your camera device.
- Select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Repeat this process for the Audio inputs and outputs section to update your microphone drivers.
If Windows doesn’t find a new driver, visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver manually.
Step 3: Reset the Camera App
If you are using the built-in Camera app and it is not working, resetting it can help fix corrupted files.
Steps to reset:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps > Apps & features.
- Scroll down to find the Camera app and click it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm if prompted.
This process clears the app data and settings, which often resolves issues caused by the update.
Step 4: Run the Windows Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can detect and fix common hardware problems automatically.
To run the troubleshooter:
- Open Settings and go to Update & Security.
- Click Troubleshoot on the left panel.
- Click Additional troubleshooters.
- Find and run the Camera troubleshooter.
- Also run the Recording Audio troubleshooter for microphone issues.
Follow the on-screen instructions to apply any fixes suggested by the troubleshooter.
Step 5: Check Antivirus or Security Software Settings
Sometimes, security software blocks apps from using the camera or microphone for privacy reasons.
To check this:
- Open your antivirus or security software settings.
- Look for privacy or app permission settings.
- Make sure the camera and microphone access are allowed for the apps you need.
Refer to your antivirus software’s support documentation if you are unsure how to check these settings.
Alternative Method: Use Device Manager to Disable and Enable Devices
If the above steps do not work, try disabling and enabling the camera and microphone devices:
- Open Device Manager.
- Right-click your camera under the Cameras section and select Disable device. Confirm if prompted.
- Wait a few seconds, then right-click it again and select Enable device.
- Repeat for the microphone under Audio inputs and outputs.
This can refresh the device connection and clear temporary glitches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did my camera and microphone stop working after the update?
The Windows 10 April update sometimes resets privacy permissions and device drivers, causing apps to lose access to your hardware.
Can I use third-party apps to fix these issues?
While some third-party tools claim to fix driver problems, it is safer to use Windows built-in tools or official driver updates.
What if my camera or microphone doesn’t appear in Device Manager?
This could mean the device is disconnected or malfunctioning. Check physical connections or try using a different USB port.
How do I know if the problem is hardware-related?
Try your camera or microphone on another device. If it doesn’t work there, the hardware may be faulty.
Is it safe to reset the Camera app?
Yes, resetting the app only clears temporary data and settings. Your files and photos will not be deleted.
When Nothing Works
If you’ve tried all the steps above and still face issues, consider the following options:
- Use the official Microsoft audio troubleshooter or camera troubleshooting guide.
- Contact your device manufacturer for support if hardware issues are suspected.
- Consider rolling back the Windows update temporarily if the problem started immediately after installing it.
- Seek professional technical assistance if you are uncomfortable performing advanced fixes.
Conclusion
Camera and microphone access issues after the Windows 10 April update are common but usually easy to fix. Start by checking your privacy settings, then update your drivers, reset the Camera app, and use Windows troubleshooters.
Remember to verify security software permissions and try disabling and enabling devices if needed. If these basic steps do not help, explore advanced options or official support resources.
Following this guide will help restore your camera and microphone functionality so you can continue using your apps without interruption.