How to Set Up and Use Zoom

Zoom is one of the most widely used video calling apps in the world. Millions of people use it for family calls, doctor appointments, work meetings, classes, and social gatherings. The free version lets you host meetings with up to 100 people for up to 40 minutes — more than enough for most personal use.

To get started, download Zoom. On a computer, go to zoom.us and click "Download" at the bottom of the page. On iPhone, find "Zoom Workplace" in the App Store. On Android, find it in the Google Play Store. Install it and open the app.

You can join a Zoom meeting without an account — if someone sends you a link, you can click it and join as a guest. But to host your own meetings, you need a free account. Go to zoom.us and click "Sign Up, It's Free." Enter your email address, create a password, and verify your email.

To start a meeting, open the Zoom app and click "New Meeting." Your camera turns on and you are in a meeting room. To invite others, click "Participants" then "Invite" then copy the meeting link. Send this link to people by text, email, or messaging app. When they click it, they join your meeting.

To join a meeting someone else is hosting, click the link they sent you. Or open the Zoom app, click "Join," and enter the Meeting ID (a number the host gives you). You may also need a passcode.

During a meeting, the controls at the bottom of the screen include: microphone on/off (Mute/Unmute), camera on/off (Start/Stop Video), Participants (see who is in the call), Chat (send text messages during the call), Share Screen (show your screen to others), and a red "Leave" button to exit.

Zoom tips: position your camera at eye level for the most natural look. Make sure you are well-lit from the front (not backlit by a window). Mute yourself when you are not speaking to reduce background noise. Use the chat feature to share links or messages without interrupting the speaker.