From install to first click in five steps.

Requirements

• Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC
• A webcam (built in or USB)
• RAM: 4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended
• Processor: Intel Core i3 7th gen minimum, Core i5 8th gen recommended
• Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable (required) — official Microsoft page (opens in a new tab)
• A microphone if you want to use speech commands (English)

Install

1. Install the Visual C++ Redistributable

   Download the latest supported x64 package from Microsoft Learn (opens in a new tab) and run it. If it says it's already installed, you're set.

2. 

   Get FaceNav from the Microsoft Store

   Open the FaceNav Store listing (opens in a new tab) and choose Get or Install. On a managed school or work PC you may need IT to approve it.

3. Allow camera and microphone

   In Windows Settings, Privacy and security, make sure desktop apps can use your camera and (for speech) your microphone. Close other apps that are using the webcam, such as video calls.

Configure

1. Position and light

   Sit so your whole face is in view, roughly an arm's length from the camera, at eye level if possible. Light your face from the front; avoid a bright window behind you.

2. Choose your mode

   Pick the mode that matches how you'll work: nose tracking with facial gestures, nose tracking with speech, or a combination. The available speech commands depend on the mode you select.

3. Open settings when needed

   Say settings or press the comma key , to open settings. Adjust sensitivity so small movements feel controlled, not jumpy.

Your first session

1. Rest, then say "Butterfly"

   Settle into a comfortable resting position and say butterfly. This sets the joystick centre and stops the pointer.

2. Nudge, don't swing

   Small nose movements move the pointer slowly; moving further from centre moves it faster (the dual-sensitive joystick). Return to centre to slow down.

3. Click

   Try your chosen facial gesture, or say click. Practise on a large target like the desktop or a big button.

4. Stop any time

   Say butterfly to stop the cursor.ESC stops tracking.

Troubleshooting

FaceNav won't open or closes straight away

Install or repair the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable, restart the PC, and try again. Check your PC meets the minimum RAM and processor requirements.

The camera window is black or my face isn't detected

Close other apps using the camera. Check Windows camera privacy settings allow desktop apps. Improve front lighting and make sure your whole face is visible.

The pointer drifts or keeps moving

Say butterfly while resting comfortably to recentre and stop the cursor. If you've moved in your seat, reposition and say it again. Reduce sensitivity in settings.

Speech commands aren't recognised

Check a microphone is connected and allowed in Windows privacy settings, and that speech is enabled in your FaceNav mode. Speak clearly in English and reduce background noise. Remember that not every command is available in every mode.

Movement feels tiring

Lower the sensitivity so smaller movements are needed, raise the camera to eye level, and take regular rest breaks. Stop if anything is uncomfortable.

It works in some apps but not others

Some apps and games handle input differently. Try a different mode or keyboard mapping, then prepare a compatibility report for the team.

More help