Tech Tips * Zoom Instructions * Troubleshooting

With more and more devices connected to the internet for work, school, and social gatherings, performance has noticeably changed for many users.  Here are some tips that might help improve your connection to the internet and, thereby, improve your online experience at home:

1. Reboot your modem and wait for it to be fully functional, all lights working, then
2. Reboot your router and wait for it to be fully functional, all lights working, finally
3. Reboot your device (follow your device instructions for desktop, tablet, or phone)

Notes:  You may need to physically unplug the modem and / or router if there is no On/Off switch; wait at least 10 seconds before plugging back in.  Also, the modem and the router may be bundled in one device.    Also, make sure any open files are saved and applications are closed prior to attempting.  

Always heed the advice / instructions of your device manufacturer and internet service providers prior to attempting anything by yourself.

1. Download Zoom on your device.

For Phone

• Go to App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android).
• Search for Zoom Cloud Meetings and install.   

From Desktop

• Go to www.zoom.us/download
• Click on Zoom Client For Meetings to download.
• Be sure to choose YES when asked about allowing the app to make changes to your device.
• To utilize the video option (for others to see your face) your device must have a webcam.

2. Click on the meeting link you wish to attend.  The meeting isn’t opened until close to the scheduled starting time.  If you miss the starting time, you will be joined while the meeting is already in session (and that’s okay). Often times, a meeting host will send you a link to a specific meeting. Once you have the Zoom program downloaded on your phone, tablet, or computer, click the link at (or just before) the specific meeting time.  You might have to select "Meeting ID" if you have participated in other Meetings before.  You will then be asked to the meeting password.  Following these steps should allow you to join the meeting with ease.

When you see a message to update Zoom to the latest version

• If you are prompted to update Zoom to the latest version, please choose to update and follow the instructions given.

Tips for Using Zoom for the First Time

• If you are in a large group, use the mute button to turn off your microphone to avoid errant sounds that will focus attention on your device and, possibly, disrupt the meeting.
• If you don’t want to be seen on video, there is an option to "Stop Video" that turn off your camera.  You will still be able to see and hear the active speaker.
• If you are having problems, contact your Meeting host, utilize tutorials on Zoom.us, or request a free demo on the Zoom homepage.
• Be patient with yourself the first time. Ask for help if you need it.

Troubleshooting Zoom

• If you are not taken directly to your meeting, make sure that you entered the correct meeting number or that you selected the correct meeting number if your device keeps recent meeting numbers in memory.
• When asked to enter the meeting password, make sure that you have entered the correct password if a password is required.
• If you are having connection issues related to bandwidth, "Stop Video" to reduce your network load.
• If you are at home, remove other active devices off of your network to increase the usable internet bandwidth.
• If you are using the app during peak times, understand that there might be issues related to high usage by other Zoom users and by your own internet provider.  There is probably very little that you can do about that.