FAQ: What Zoom is and how to use it
What is Zoom?
Zoom is a video and audio platform for conferencing, meetings, chat, and webinars. For this particular event, we are using Zoom Webinar, a special Zoom feature that allows for a larger number of participants. Webinar roles are separated into panelists (as well as hosts) who are able to be visible and speak during the webinar, and attendees (that’s you), who will not appear onscreen or be heard, but who can join in live chat and Q&A.
Do I have to download Zoom to attend a Webinar?
For the best performance, sound, and video quality, we do recommend downloading Zoom (more on how to do that below). But you don’t have to download Zoom in order to attend a Webinar. If you prefer, you can access Zoom via your web browser (more on how to do that below).
What if I don’t want to download Zoom onto my computer or device?
If you prefer not to download Zoom, you have two alternatives.
- You can access zoom through your web browser without downloading the application.
Here’s how: Just click on the Zoom link while you’re using the browser called Chrome. Firefox and Safari do not work as well for Zoom. (If you have downloaded Zoom, however, you will be able to access the Webinar through any web browser).
- You can also connect from a telephone (cell or landline).
This second method is an audio-only option, and you will not be able to see the video of the conversation. If you wish to access the meeting without video, you have the option for an audio-only experience by calling into the teleconferencing telephone # provided in the confirmation email you should have received from BABF. Several telephone numbers are provided for any Zoom meeting. Simply dial the number that is geographically closest to you. There should be at least one option for a California phone number listed, as well as other options for the United States and abroad.
Ok, I want to download Zoom. How do I do that?
Click here to download Zoom Version 5.0.0 (23186.0427)*
Zoom is a FREE application (or app) that can be downloaded to your computer (PC and Mac, desktop, laptop or ChromeBook), device (iPad, etc.) or smartphone (Apple and Android).
You should be prompted with an option to open Zoom at the time you download it.
We encourage you to open the application sometime before the Webinar to familiarize yourself with the program.
For best viewing: at the time of the Webinar, if you have downloaded the Zoom application, click the link to join from your confirmation email. Zoom will ask you if you want to open with zoom.us. Click “Allow” or “Yes.”
Does it cost anything to download Zoom?
No! Zoom provides a cost-free Basic package for download on their website. Although there are packages available for purchase, all you will need for the meeting is the Basic version, which is free to download.
What if I want to familiarize myself with Zoom before the BABF Webinar?
Zoom’s website offers the option to join a test meeting to test out the application and its usage before joining the Webinar. try it out here.
What if I have privacy and security concerns with using Zoom?
Many security and privacy concerns over Zoom have been addressed in recent weeks. Make sure you have the latest version of Zoom: 5.0.0 (23186.0427)
Information about privacy concerns (tips for optimal pre-meeting and in-meeting security settings and tips for protecting data) are provided on the Zoom website here.
If you feel as though your concerns are not addressed by this information, remember, as a Webinar attendee, your audio and video will automatically be disabled during the Webinar, and you will not be recorded. Additionally, you can always uninstall Zoom from your device once the Webinar is over.