The best thing about Skype is that you don’t just use it for instant messages and calls, but also the video feature. If you frequently make video calls and video suddenly stops working on Skype, then it’s a major issue. Here is how to fix this problem with different approaches.
Most common problems on Windows 10 happen when you haven’t updated your drivers, the Skype app, when some third-party apps interfere with Skype, or when Windows wasn’t updated. Here’s how to fix Skype’s video issues.
1. Webcam Issues: Install, Update and Configure
- Most of the times, the webcam is at fault, so you should first install the generic webcam driver and see if you have solved the problem. Here are the steps to do it:
Press Windows Key + X -> choose ‘Device Manager’
Look for the webcam driver, right-click it and select ‘Update driver’
Select ‘Browse my computer for driver software’ -> Click on ‘Choose Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer’
Select USB Video Device -> click Next.
Then follow the instructions and finish the process.
- Some users also recommend updating the webcam driver if you have it installed already – you can find the latest version on the manufacturer’s website.
- Make sure you have configured the webcam in Skype:
Open Skype -> ‘Options’ -> ‘Video Settings’ (in the left)
Check if the right camera is selected and click save.
If the problem is still there, continue with the following solutions.
2. Remove Third-Party Apps That Might Interfere with Skype
Most of the third-party apps that interfere with Skype are the virtual video capture software like CyberLink YouCam, and other camera software so you must find and remove those apps. Uninstall them and make sure their files and registry entries are removed.
3. Is Your System Updated?
Make sure Windows 10 is up to date to avoid issues of any kind.
Press Windows Key + I -> go to the ‘Update & Security section’ -> select ‘Check for updates’ (right pane)
Windows will search for updates and download them. Once downloaded the updates, restart the PC so that they get installed. Check if Skype still has video issues.
4. Edit Registry
Some users recommend to change the registry to fix the issue:
Press Windows Key + R -> enter regedit -> Enter / click OK
Look at the left pane and go to:
ComputerHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREWOW6432NodeMicrosoftWindows Media FoundationPlatform
At the right panel click the empty space and choose: New > DWORD (32-bit) Value
Change the name of the DWORD into EnableFrameServerMode
Double click the EnableFrameServerMode and check if the Value Data is 0.
Close Registry Editor and check if the problem is gone.
5. Reinstall Skype
Uninstall Skype, make sure you completely remove it and reinstall Skype. Some users also recommend downloading a previous version of Skype.
6. Perform a System Restore
If you’ve tried everything and it’s not working, you can perform a System Restore if the video issue is recent. A System Restore will restore your PC to an earlier state:
Press Windows Key + S -> type system restore -> select ‘Create a restore point’
The System Properties window opens -> click ‘System Restore’
System Restore window opens -> click ‘Next’ -> if available, check ‘Show more restore points’ and select the restore point you desire then click ‘Next’
Follow the instructions to complete the System Restore and once it’s done, check if the problem was solved.
Robert J. Smith is still early into his career as tech reporter but has already had his work published in many major publications including JoyStiq and Android Authority. In regards to academics, Robert earned a degree in business from Fordham University. Robert has passion for emerging technology and covers upcoming products and breakthroughs in science and tech.
