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Zoom on Mac: A User's Guide to Installation, Setup, and Meetings.

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— 7 min read

Viraj Mahajan (Adapted) | Updated: 2024-10-15 | 6mins read

A Comprehensive Guide to Installing and Configuring Zoom on Your Mac

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If you're a Mac user aiming to set up the Zoom application, you might be aware of the potential hurdles posed by compatibility concerns and stringent security measures. The robust security framework of macOS can sometimes make the installation of third-party software like Zoom a bit intricate.

Whenever I add a third-party application to my Mac, I often encounter a detailed procedure. Thus, I appreciate the complexities that can arise when installing Zoom for Mac. Fortunately, this in-depth tutorial on Zoom for Mac is designed to help you smoothly overcome common setup obstacles. I've personally installed Zoom on my Mac to illustrate the process, initiated a meeting, and even invited participants to provide readers with a clearer understanding. So, continue reading to discover the necessary prerequisites for installing the app and the step-by-step guidance for launching a Zoom meeting.

Essential Prerequisites for Zoom Installation on Mac

Before proceeding with the download or installation of the Zoom app, it's vital to confirm that your system meets the necessary requirements and to adjust your Mac's settings accordingly. A key point to remember is that the Zoom application supports macOS X, specifically versions macOS X (10.10) or newer. If your Mac version is compatible, the subsequent step involves granting installation permission by adhering to the steps outlined below.

  1. Step 1: In the upper-left corner of your Mac's screen, click the Apple menu icon. Then, choose 'System Settings...'.
  2. Step 2: Opt for 'Privacy & Security.'
  3. Step 3: Towards the bottom left of the Mac screen, click the 'Lock' icon to authorize changes.
  4. Step 4: Next, input the username and password for your computer's administrator account.
    Note: If you are running a more recent macOS version, you might be able to bypass steps 3 and 4.
  5. Step 5: Scroll downwards until you locate the 'Security' section. Under 'Allow applications downloaded from,' choose 'App Store and identified developers.'
    Note: If you are on Mac High Sierra (10.13.x), you may need to click 'Allow.'

Steps to Download and Install the Zoom Application on Mac

Once you've granted the necessary permissions and confirmed your system meets the requirements, your next action is to download Zoom for your Mac. This section will guide you through the systematic process to swiftly download and install the Zoom app compatible with your Mac.

  1. Step 1: Navigate to the Zoom Download Center to acquire the Zoom App for Mac. Under 'Zoom Desktop Client,' click 'Download.'
    The downloaded Zoom installer file will be located in your Downloads folder.
  2. Step 2: Double-click the downloaded file, and the installer will launch. Click 'Continue.'
  3. Step 3: After selecting 'Continue,' you'll be asked to pick the installation destination. Choose 'Install for me only' and then click 'Continue.'
  4. Step 4: Upon completion of the Zoom installation, click 'Done.'

If Zoom isn't functioning correctly on your Mac or if you wish to perform a clean installation, here are straightforward steps to uninstall the Zoom App on Mac:

  1. Step 1: Launch the Zoom desktop application. At the top of your screen, click on Zoom.us in the menu bar.
  2. Step 2: Choose 'Uninstall Zoom.'
  3. Step 3: Click 'OK' to confirm the uninstallation of the Zoom App.
    Note: The steps above are applicable if you're using Zoom version 4.4.53932.0709 or later. However, to uninstall Zoom version 4.4.53909.0617 and earlier, follow these instructions:

For older versions:

  1. Open 'Finder.'
  2. At the top of your screen, select Go → Go to Folder.
  3. Enter ~/.zoomus/ and drag ZoomOpener to your Trash.
  4. Repeat Step 2 and navigate to /Applications/, then move 'zoom.us.app' to Trash.
  5. Also, check /System/Library/Extensions/ and /Library/Application Support/ for any Zoom-related files and move them to Trash.

That's all! Once these folders/files are moved to Trash, the Zoom App will be uninstalled.

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How to Keep Your Zoom Application Updated on Mac

Zoom regularly releases new versions of its application to address bugs and introduce new functionalities. The latest version often enhances the audio and video quality during virtual meetings. If you wish to use the most recent Zoom app version on your Mac, here are the steps to follow:

  1. Step 1: Open the Zoom application on your Mac. In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click on your profile icon or name (zoom.us).
  2. Step 2: A drop-down menu will appear on your Mac screen; from this menu, click 'Check for Updates.'
  3. Step 3: The Zoom app will then connect to its servers to verify if any updates are available. You can select 'Update' to download and install the newest Zoom app version.
  4. Step 4: Adhere to the on-screen prompts to quickly install the update. Alternatively, if you see the 'You are up to date' message, click 'Done' to close the prompt.

Initiating a Zoom Meeting on Your Mac

Zoom meetings offer a straightforward and practical method to connect with remote team members and exchange ideas. Before you commence a Zoom meeting on your Mac, here’s how to grant or modify permissions to utilize Zoom's features:

  1. Step 1: At the top left of your screen, click the Apple logo. Select 'System Settings...'
  2. Step 2: Go to the 'Privacy & Security' option.
  3. Step 3: Choose the 'Privacy' tab. If present, click the 'Lock' icon at the bottom left of the screen. For older Mac versions, enter the OS administrator username and password to unlock.
  4. Step 4: Adjust permissions for Camera, Microphone, Files and Folders, Screen Recording, and Accessibility. Confirm consent by ticking the box next to zoom.us and Zoom Rooms.
  5. Step 5: After allowing all necessary permissions, select 'Quit & Reopen' or click the close (X) icon.

Once you have granted the essential permissions to Zoom, here's how to start a meeting as the host and invite others:

  1. Step 1: Log in to your Zoom app, and you'll land on the Home tab. To start a new Zoom meeting, click the 'New Meeting' button. You'll see a small down arrow next to 'New Meeting.' Click this arrow, and a drop-down menu will show. You can opt to 'Start with video' or 'Use my Personal Meeting ID (PMI)' to begin a Zoom session.
  2. Step 2: In the meeting controls bar, find the 'Participants' option and click the upward arrow (^) next to it.
  3. Step 3: A pop-up menu will open where you can find 'Invite' and 'Copy Invite Link.'
  4. Step 4: Click either 'Invite' or 'Copy Invite Link.' A new dialog box will appear where you can enter the names of your contacts. Alternatively, you can dispatch invites to participants via email.

Enabling Zoom Screen Sharing on Mac

The Zoom screen-sharing capability allows hosts and participants to share their screens, fostering a more collaborative meeting environment. To utilize the video conference screen-sharing feature, initiate or join a Zoom meeting and click the 'Share Screen' button (usually green) in the meeting controls. A pop-up window will appear, enabling you to select the specific desktop or application window you wish to share. Simply highlight your desired screen or application, and then click the 'Share' button in the lower right corner. That's it! All meeting attendees can now view the content of your shared screen.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why am I unable to download Zoom?Zoom installation requires fulfilling certain prerequisites on your Mac. For instance, you need to ensure your macOS version is compatible (10.10 or later). Additionally, you might need to adjust your Mac's security settings to permit downloads from identified developers. If you're facing issues, revisit the 'Essential Prerequisites for Zoom Installation on Mac' section for guidance on modifying 'Privacy & Security' settings.How can I use an external camera on my Mac for Zoom?Zoom conveniently allows users to connect and use an external camera with their Mac for Zoom calls. Here's how to link an external webcam for your Zoom call on a Mac:

  1. Open the Zoom app on your Mac.
  2. In the menu bar (top of the screen), click 'zoom.us' to reveal a drop-down menu.
  3. Select 'Settings' (or 'Preferences') and find the 'Video' category. Click on it.
  4. Locate the 'Camera' section and click the drop-down menu to its right. All webcams available to your Mac will be listed.
  5. Choose the external camera you intend to use.

How can I transcribe a Zoom meeting?

Zoom offers a built-in live transcription feature that the host can enable. However, for enhanced accuracy, multi-language support, and additional features like AI summaries and mind maps, third-party services like DeepVo.ai provide a powerful alternative. DeepVo.ai offers highly accurate voice-to-text conversion (over 99.5% accuracy) in more than 100 languages, ensuring your meeting content is captured precisely.

Here's how you can typically use DeepVo.ai to transcribe your Zoom meetings:

  1. Record your Zoom meeting as you normally would. Ensure you have good audio quality.
  2. After the meeting, save the recording (usually an MP4 or M4A file) to your computer.
  3. Visit the DeepVo.ai website and sign up for a free account if you haven't already.
  4. Upload your Zoom meeting recording to the DeepVo.ai platform.
  5. DeepVo.ai will then process the audio, providing you with a highly accurate transcript. You can also leverage its AI to generate concise summaries and even a structured mind map of the discussion.

This process allows you to have a searchable, editable, and summarizable record of your meeting, with the added benefit of DeepVo.ai's end-to-end encryption for data security.

Key Learnings

Downloading, installing, or configuring Zoom for Mac is generally as straightforward as using Zoom on Windows or mobile platforms. It unlocks a realm of seamless collaboration and communication. Following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide will assist you in downloading, installing, or initiating Zoom meetings effectively. If you aim to maximize the value of your Zoom meetings and retain crucial information for future reference, consider leveraging a service like DeepVo.ai. With the support of such AI-powered transcription and summarization tools, you can easily access, review, and save meeting transcripts, summaries, and mind maps for later use, all free to start and securely encrypted.

Viraj Mahajan (Adapted Content)

Viraj Mahajan is a distinguished author and professional writer with extensive experience. Having collaborated with notable publication houses, EdTech organizations, and FinTech companies, Viraj's proficiency covers diverse fields.

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