WHAT IS ZOOM?
Zoom is a service that allows people to video chat over the internet. What makes it special is that it allows multiple people to join the same conversation, making it easier to host online events / meetings.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
One person acts as the host and creates a meeting. Once they’ve done that, they send an email invitation with the hyperlink to their guests. When guests click the link, they will be able to access the meeting and talk with their friends. We will go over how to join a meeting in more detail during our next video.
DO I NEED AN ACCOUNT?
You do NOT need an account to attend a meeting. If someone invites you to a meeting, you can click the link and attend as a participant. However, you do need an account if you want to host a meeting.
DO I NEED TO DOWNLOAD ZOOM?
Yes. Zoom works best when you have downloaded it to your device. You can install it on a computer, tablet, or phone. Each is a little different, so be sure to pick the device you are most comfortable and confident using.
Is Zoom safe?
Zoom takes your safety seriously. They have built in a lot of security options to make your meeting an enjoyable one. It is up to your event Host to use those tools. Groton Public Library & Groton Senior Center, are using these tools to make sure your information is safe and the meeting is fun for all.
JOINING A ZOOM MEETING
Most meetings start with an email invitation. This is a basic invitation for a Zoom meeting. Every invitation should contain the time and date the meeting is taking place, as well as a link to access it.
Some meetings may have a password and Meeting ID. A lot of people use this feature to make a private meeting. For example, someone may use a password if they are hosting a class and only want the people who registered to attend. If you are invited to a password protected meeting, you can access it in two ways. The first is by clicking the hyperlink – the password information is usually embedded in the link so you won’t have to type it in. The second is by opening zoom on your device and entering the Meeting ID and password. This will allow you access to the meeting.
Once you’ve joined, you may be put into a waiting room. This allows the host to choose when everyone is allowed into the meeting and gives them time to finish setting up. When the host is ready, they will let you into the Zoom meeting. If you see this screen while trying to go to a meeting, just sit tight. Your host is on their way!
WHAT IF YOU CAN’T USE ZOOM ONLINE BUT STILL WANT TO PARTICIPATE?
Not everyone has a device that will work with Zoom, but that doesn’t mean you can’t participate. Ask your event host about a call in feature. Using your phone, you will be given a phone number to call and a Meeting ID number to enter. Once you have, you will be able to hear the meeting and talk to everyone as if you were on a regular phone call.
ZOOM TUTORIAL VIDEOS
Thank you Groton Public Library for creating
three great YouTube videos covering this very information. It can be found at the Groton Municipal Television (GMTV) YouTube site. www.Youtube.com
Need Help with Zoom? Give us a call 860-441-6785.