How to download and use Zoom for a webinar

1. Why use Zoom?

Zoom is a free, easy-to-use video-calling app that helps you stay connected with family, friends, and groups like AbilityNet. With Zoom, you can:

• Make video calls with loved ones.
• Attend online meetings or social events.
• Join virtual appointments and services.

What you will learn

By the end of this guide, you will be able to:

• Download and install Zoom on your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
• Create an account or sign in.
• Join a Zoom meeting.
• Adjust basic settings for a better experience.

What you need

• A smartphone, tablet, or computer.
• A stable internet connection.
• An email address (needed to sign up if creating a new account).

2. Downloading Zoom

For Windows or Mac Computers

1. Open your internet browser (Google Chrome, Safari, Microsoft Edge).
2. Go to: www.zoom.us/download and press Enter. (If you have trouble finding the website, open Google and search for: “Download Zoom” click the official Zoom link.)
   
   
    
3. Under "Zoom Workplace for Windows," click Download.
   
4. Wait for the file to download, then locate it in your Downloads folder.
   
   

For Android Phones/Tablets

1. Open the Google Play Store.
2. In the search bar, type "Zoom".
3. Tap Install.
4. Wait for the app to finish downloading.
   
   

For iPhones/iPads

1. Open the App Store.
2. In the search bar, type "Zoom".
3. Tap Get (you may need to enter your Apple ID password).
4. Wait for the app to install.
   
   

3. Installing and opening Zoom

On Windows/Mac

1. Open the downloaded file (ZoomInstaller.exe on Windows, Zoom.pkg on Mac).
2. Click Run or Install and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Once installed, click the Zoom icon on your desktop or search for "Zoom" in the Start menu (Windows) or Applications folder (Mac).
   
   

On Android/iPhone/iPad

1. Once installed, tap the Zoom app icon from your home screen.
2. Allow necessary permissions (e.g., microphone and camera access).
   
   

4. Creating a Zoom account (Optional)

If you only need to join meetings, you do not need an account. However, to host your own meetings, follow these steps:

1. Open the Zoom app.
2. Tap Sign Up.
3. Enter your email address and full name, and follow the onscreen prompts.
4. Check your email for a confirmation message, and click the link inside.
5. Set a password and complete your account setup.
   
   

5. Joining a Zoom Meeting

Using a Meeting Link (Easiest Method)

1. Open the email, message, or invitation containing the Zoom link.
2. Click the link (it will start with "https://zoom.us/").
3. Zoom will open automatically; tap Join Meeting.
   
   

Manually Entering a Meeting ID

1. Open the Zoom app.
2. Tap Join a Meeting.
3. Enter the Meeting ID (found in the invitation email).
4. Enter your name and tap Join.
5. Enter the Passcode if prompted.
   
   

6. Adjusting basic Zoom settings

Turning On/Off Camera & Microphone

• Tap Start Video / Stop Video to turn on/off your camera.
• Tap Mute/UnMute to turn off/on your microphone.
  

Changing Your Display Name

1. Tap Participants.
2. Find your name and tap Rename.
3. Enter your preferred name and tap OK. 
   
   

Enabling Closed Captions (For Accessibility)

1. Tap More (three dots at the bottom of the screen).
2. Select Closed Captioning if available.
   
   

7. Using Zoom for AbilityNet Webinars

• Using the Chat Feature: Tap Chat to type a question (if chat is enabled - AbilityNet webinars often have it switched off)
• Using the Q&A Feature: Type your question for the panel in the Q&A area and the host or panel will answer it if they are able/have time
• Raising Your Hand: Tap Reactions → Raise Hand to ask a question.
  
  

8. Exiting a Zoom Meeting

• You can leave a meeting at any time.
• Click Leave Meeting in the bottom right.
• Confirm by tapping Leave.
  
  

9. Common troubleshooting tips

I can’t hear or be heard

• Ensure your microphone isn’t muted.
• Tap Join Audio and select Call via Device Audio.

My camera isn’t working

• Ensure your camera is enabled (tap Start Video).
• Close other apps that might be using the camera.

I can’t join a Meeting

• Check your internet connection.
• Restart your device and try again.
• Common Error: “Invalid Meeting ID” → Check the invitation email for typos.

10. Practice Activity: Join a Test Meeting

Zoom offers a test meeting to practice before an actual call.

1. Open your browser and visit www.zoom.us/test.
2. Click Join and follow the prompts.
   
   

12. Tips for a smooth Zoom experience

Check your internet connection: Use a stable and fast internet connection.

Join early: Log in 5-10 minutes before the webinar to resolve any technical issues.

Mute Notifications: Silence other apps or devices to avoid interruptions.

Update Zoom regularly: Ensure you have the latest version of Zoom for new features and security updates.

13. Additional resources

Zoom Help: https://support.zoom.us

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