> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.talview.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Why is my camera and microphone blocked?

If your test or interview cannot access your **camera or microphone**, it usually means the browser or operating system has blocked the required permissions. This can prevent you from starting the session or being seen and heard during a live or proctored assessment.

In this article, you’ll learn why camera or microphone access gets blocked and the steps you can take across different browsers and operating systems to fix it quickly.

## ✅ Common Issues and Fixes

| **What Might Be Wrong**                                   | **What You Can Do**                                                                                                                                          |
| :-------------------------------------------------------- | :----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Browser does not have permission to use camera/microphone | Open your **browser settings** → **Privacy & Security** → **Site Settings / Permissions** → Set **Camera** and **Microphone** to **Allow** for the test site |
| You selected “Block” on the permission prompt             | Reload the page, click the **site permission icon** in the address bar, change Camera and Microphone to **Allow**, then refresh                              |
| Another application is using the camera or microphone     | Close apps like Zoom, Teams, Skype, screen recorders, or background utilities using audio/video                                                              |
| Incorrect camera or microphone selected                   | In browser settings, ensure the **correct input devices** are selected for Camera and Microphone                                                             |
| Browser tab is not secure                                 | Ensure the test link starts with **https\://**. If not, contact support                                                                                      |
| OS-level permissions are disabled                         | On **Windows or macOS**, open **System Privacy Settings** and allow your browser to access the camera and microphone                                         |
| External camera or mic not detected                       | Reconnect the device, refresh the page, and confirm it appears in the device selection list                                                                  |

<Tip>
  ### Additional Tips

  * Close **all other browser tabs and windows**
  * Restart your browser after changing permissions
  * Avoid using **private/incognito mode** unless explicitly supported
  * Ensure you are using a **supported and up-to-date browser**
</Tip>

### ✅ Final Check: Confirm Camera and Microphone Access

Before restarting your test or interview:

* Test your [**camera and microphone**](https://video-diagnostics.talview.org/)
* Verify that video preview is visible
* Confirm your microphone input shows activity

Once confirmed, rejoin your session to continue without interruptions.