How to Install a Webcam Driver

Installing a webcam requires drivers. A driver is the method by which the computer communicates with devices. Without a driver, the PC will not understand how to use the webcam. Generally, a webcam comes with a driver disk when you purchase it. If you purchase the webcam second-hand or lost the disk, you can download the drivers.

Instructions

Installing a Driver from a Disk

1. Plug the webcam into your PC's USB port.

2. Insert the driver disk into your computer's disk drive. Wait for the disk to auto-load. If it does not, click "My Computer" and then click the CD/DVD drive letter. This is usually "D" or "E."

3. Select the "Install" or "Setup" option. Follow the on-screen instructions. When the installation is complete, remove the disk and restart your PC.

Installing a Driver from a File

1. Determine your webcam's manufacturer and model number. This is typically printed on the cam or in your user manual.

2. Search a driver website such as Driver's Guide or Driver Files for your webcam's manufacturer. Most driver sites are free to use, although a registration process may be required. When you find the driver on the site that matches your webcam, double-click to download the file. Create a separate folder where the downloaded file will be saved.

3. Open the webcam folder through "My Computer" and "Local Drive."

4. Plug the webcam into your PC's USB port.

5. Double-click the ".EXE" file. Select "Run." Wait for the webcam driver to install.

6. If the driver file is in a ".ZIP" format, right-click the file and click "Extract to the current folder." Double-click the "Setup" or "Install" file and then click the "Run" tab. Let the file completely install.

7. Restart your computer to save changes.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Driver's Guide
• Driver Files
• Driver Downloads