Zoom
Zoom is a video conferencing platform that can be used through a computer desktop or mobile app, and allows users to connect online for video conference meetings, webinars and live chat.
During the Covid19 crisis, Zoom has seen a surge in popularity, with millions of people using it to stay in touch with others. The app is available to download for free, and Zoom users can choose to sign up to the free service, or for a number of paid plans. The free services allows users to create unlimited meetings with up to 100 participants, although the time limit for group meetings is 40 minutes.
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How does it work?
Zoom allows users to create and join virtual meeting rooms where they can communicate with each other using video, and audio. Additional features can give participants the ability to share their screen, share files, and use text chat within the meeting group or privately with others in the meeting.
In order to join a Zoom meeting, a participant needs to have the Zoom app, and either the meeting link, or a Meeting ID and a password. While you do not need Zoom account to access a meeting, users need to set up an account in order to host a meeting.
This generates the Meeting ID and password, and a URL for the meeting which can be shared with people you want to participate in the meeting.
Zoom recently enabled passwords by default, meaning users will have to enter the password to join a meeting if they are entering the details manually. However, the participants do not need to enter this password if they click on the meeting url to join it.
Hosts can manage other settings within their account to allow permissions for features such as whether people will be allowed to share their screen, or have the ability to have a private chat with others in the meeting
Video and audio – When joining a Zoom meeting, users are given the option to turn their video on or off, and you will also be able to see other participants, if they have their camera enabled. The meeting host has additional controls to disable the video or mute the audio of individuals who are taking part in the meeting.
Share Screen – The Share Screen functions allow people to share what is on their screen with others in the meeting. Users can do this by clicking on the Share Screen icon on the control panel. The meeting host has the ability to control access to this function, and allow all users, specific users, or restrict it to ‘host only’.
Chat function – Group chat allows users to interact using text during the meeting, and participants may also use private chat with others in the group. Meeting hosts can adjust this setting to restrict who participants can chat to.
Why is it popular?
Zoom’s appeal is that, even using the free version of the service, it gives people the capacity to bring together a large number of participants in one meeting. Only the host is required to set up an account with Zoom, and the access information can be easily distributed to people who may want to join the meeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Zoom account is not required if you are strictly joining Zoom Meetings as a participant. If someone invites you to their meeting, you can join as a participant without creating an account. However, if the host has restricted joining meetings using authentication profiles, then the participant will need a Zoom account to access the meeting. Learn more about joining a Zoom meeting without an account.
An account is only required if you need to create your own meetings and send invitations to participants. Having a Zoom account allows you to create your own instant Meetings or schedule Meetings. An account also allows you to access your personal settings, where you can update your profile or upgrade your plan at any time.
After purchasing your webinar license, you can schedule your webinar on the Webinars page of the Zoom web portal. When it's time to start your webinar, you can start it from the Webinars page of the Zoom web portal or from the Meetings tab of your Zoom client. Learn more about getting started with Zoom Webinars.
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