Skype webcam does not work: It may be because of it

If the camera does not work during a video call in Skype, this can have a number of causes. We present the most common problems and their solutions.

Use and change webcam on Skype

Before you get to the bottom of deeper problems, make sure that the right webcam is selected:

Open Skype and click on any contact.
Click on the connection symbol next to the call button (see picture).
Select the "Webcam" tab and in the list (if available) a second webcam with an image displayed.
If the picture is still not visible, follow the instructions in the next paragraph.

Operation: Skype may not be able to access the webcam because it is still being used by another program. Close this. If a lamp flashes or lights up next to the webcam, this is usually a sign that it is already in use.
Function check: Check whether the webcam only does not work with Skype or whether the problem is with the camera itself. Use either software already installed on your computer or a chat room. Windows 8 users can access the camera app.
Update Skype: Download and install the latest version of Skype or use the update function within the program. Problems of this kind can occur particularly in the case of very outdated versions.
Update driver: If your webcam does not work outside of Skype, you should update the driver. You can get this either on the manufacturer's homepage or via the device manager. You can read how the latter works in this picture gallery.
Windows updates: Drivers for webcams are often provided via Windows Update. Therefore, always install the latest updates.
Reinstall: If nothing helps at all, it usually does a complete deinstallation and subsequent reinstallation of Skype. You can download the installer here.