How can I Improve my Zoom Experience?

Use a wired ethernet connection (whenever possible)

• Connect an ethernet cable into your computer and turn off WiFi. Instructors should always use a wired Ethernet connection when holding virtual classes via Zoom. Many connectivity issues in Zoom are caused by poor and unstable WiFi networks.
• Also, check out the support page Are you are having internet connectivity issues? for a list of tips to get the best WiFi experience possible.

Update the Zoom software (client) on your computer

• Keep Zoom updated on your computer and mobile device.

When hosting a Zoom meeting mute your participants

• Muting your participants is always a good way to avoid background noise. Participants can always unmute themselves when they are ready to talk. 

Use Gallery View during a meeting

• If you are expecting a lot of participants, consider using Gallery View to see the participants (up to 49) on your screen.

Have your presentation materials open and ready to share

• If you are planning on sharing your screen in a Zoom meeting, have your presentation material (e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint document) running and ready before the Zoom meeting or class starts. Avoid launching and logging into programs while sharing your screen.
• When sharing your screen in a Zoom meeting, try to avoid sharing your whole desktop. Share only the specific application (e.g., PowerPoint).

Quit unnecessary applications

• Before you start your Zoom meeting, quit any applications on your computer that you will not need during your Zoom meeting (email, instant messaging, etc.). This will free up computer processing capacity, and prevent the chance of unintended things from being seen by those in the meeting.

Join early

• Join your meeting a few minutes early to ensure a proper connection and time to troubleshoot issues.

Join with computer audio (dial in by phone, if the audio quality on your computer is poor)

• Generally, selecting “Join With Computer Audio” to connect your computer’s microphone and speakers will provide the best audio quality during the meeting.
• However, there are cases when dialing into a meeting makes more sense. For example, if your internet service is poor, or your computer doesn’t have a built-in microphone, or if you have audio issues after selecting to join with computer audio.

Stop your webcam (if needed)

• If you are receiving pop-up messages about a poor internet connection while in a Zoom meeting, consider turning off your video (webcam) to free up bandwidth.

Don’t use your Personal Meeting ID (PMI) to schedule recurring meetings

• Your PMI is a static meeting ID that is reserved to you and linked to one virtual room. It is essentially one continuous meeting and anyone with the link can join at any time, all the time. Reusing your PMI for multiple meetings or class sessions could mean that guests not intended for that meeting could inadvertently join as the meeting ID does not change. You can start an instant meeting or schedule a meeting without using your PMI.