Zoom

Keeping you securely connected wherever you are.

Zoom can be used for simple online meetings, local collaboration or screen sharing, large meetings, and broadcast webinars. The tool enables video, audio and screen share meetings to occur anytime, anywhere, with anyone.

You can use personal computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones, or our fixed conference rooms to participate in Zoom meetings. Stay tuned, remember technology is about you.

NEWS FLASH: Zoom 5.0 is here!

The update you have been waiting for!

In response to concerns from users globally, Zoom has released their new update which they believe will set the video communications standards for the future.  Zoom 5.0 will boost security and enhance confidentiality for all users, as well as improving the user experience through a number of new features for all student and staff Zoom users.

One of the major changes that staff and students will see are the use of default passwords in all meetings. Staff and students will start seeing changes from 28 May, 2020 where passwords will now be the default for all new meetings. To learn more, please see:

Please note: If you have any issues with the above links, please copy the above KB article number (after the link) and search in MyIT Portal.

However, there is a catch...all users MUST download the new update from Zoom by the 30th of May, 2020. Older versions of the software may not work.

Learn more about the changes and how they may impact you with our Zoom 5.0 is Here! (PDF download) infographic.

Zoom: How To Guides  

Learn how to connect with colleagues and students to host and join virtual meetings with some of our helpful how-to guides.

Please note: If you have any issues with the above links, please copy the above KB article number (after the link) and search in MyIT Portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I check what version of Zoom is installed on my device?

Windows and Mac Computers
  • Within the Zoom client/app, select your profile icon on the top right of the screen (usually with your initials on the icon).
  • Select 'Help', then 'About Zoom'. See below.

iOS and Android Devices

  • Within the Zoom app, select 'Settings' on the bottom-right of the screen.
  • Select 'About'.

How do I make sure that my app is up-to-date?

For security reasons and to ensure a seamless user experience, you should always make sure that you have downloaded the latest version of the app. Zoom 5.0 is available for download now. To upgrade, please:

  • go to your Zoom app (when not in a meeting), click top right icon with your initials and go to Check for Updates;
  • download directly from Zoom’s Download Centre https://uws.zoom.us/download; or
  • visit your relevant app store (iOS and Android), Zoom app.

Troubleshooting: I am having problems updating to Zoom 5.0

Do you keep getting this message?

If your Zoom update fails (or reports it doesn’t need updating, but is only at v4.3), the steps to uninstall Zoom are the same as any other Windows application:

  • Open Windows Settings
  • Go to Apps
  • Go to Apps & Features (see image below)
  • Select Zoom - uninstall
  • Update/Re-install Zoom via:   https://uws.zoom.us/download

What settings are now default in Zoom 5.0?

As a part of the major update from Zoom, in response to security concerns with matters such as Zoom-bombing, uninvited guests, etc, there are some settings that will now be the default when you use Zoom. These include:

  • Passwords will be 'on' for all meetings. To align with the Zoom 5.0 update, ITDS will be turning on passwords on the 28th May, 2020 for 'new' meetings only. Meetings set prior to this date will not be affected.

What are the password changes taking places on 28 May?

As of the 28th May, a password will be generated when scheduling a NEW meeting and participants will require the password to join the meeting. This setting will be turned on by default for newly scheduled meetings, however users can turn it off if needed. For security purposes, this is not recommended. See the image below so you know what to expect when setting up a new meeting with passwords automatically on.

To learn more about the new security settings in Zoom 5.0, please see below:

What will happen to the meetings that I booked prior to the password changes?

Nothing, they will stay the same. The password changes taking place will only be for new meetings only booked on or after the 28th. All other meetings booked prior to this date will not require a password (unless previously set).

Is Zoom Secure?

With the highly anticipated Zoom 5.0 (see link below), the company believes it will set the new standard for video communications for all with their new advanced encryption. Western Sydney University is confident with Zoom's security offerings, however, as with most applications, it is also highly dependent on how diligent the user is.  Find out more about Zoom 5.0 and how to better protect yourself from our ITDS Cyber Security Team.

Is there a set of best practises for using Zoom in teaching and learning?

Yes, there is. Our Learning Futures Team offers support for teaching, learning and assessment. Here are some links to best practise guides below. Check out the Learning Futures website for more information.

Are there other video conferencing/communications tools I could use at WSU?

WSU has other options for video conferencing as well that may better suit your needs. For example:
  • Rule of Thumb: Microsoft Teams is a great alternative for smaller teams, sharing files, scratch space, chat function and workshops. Zoom should be used for everything else;
  • Blackboard Collaborate Ultra (vUWS) is specifically designed for classes and tutorials and is a great alternative for teaching; and
  • Phone, email and messaging is still a very effective way to communicate with your colleagues and with students.

What is if the difference between a Zoom Room and Personal Zoom?

  • Zoom Rooms: Dedicated, easy-to-use meeting rooms (on campus only) equipped for groups to Zoom together.
  • Personal Zoom: Available for all staff and students to Zoom from their own device. A web browser can be accessed if it is needed: https://uws.zoom.us/

How do I change my virtual background in Zoom?

Kids in the background? Chaos happening behind you whilst in the middle of a lecture?

From the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco to your own creative background, you can simply change it in Zoom. Learn more below.