Why you should use the Zoom Desktop App

Why you should use the Zoom Desktop App

The Zoom Desktop App provides a better experience when using Zoom. With the desktop app installed, you and your participants can access polling and quizzes, whiteboards, reactions, filters, screen sharing, gallery view, and virtual backgrounds. Note: if you are hosting a meeting with polling, your participants need to download and install the Zoom Desktop Client. 

The Zoom Desktop App is installed on UMN-supported computers, but it does not automatically log you in. Logging into the app provides you with direct links to all your meetings with access to all Zoom features and settings such as your virtual backgrounds, whiteboards, polls, appearance and video effects. For security purposes, Zoom will require you to log into the app every 7 days.

Log into the Zoom App on your computer

Click the Windows Start menu and search for Zoom. 

Tip: Add the Zoom app to your Windows taskbar for easy access! Right-click on the app and select Pin to taskbar.

Click Sign In with SSO (umn employees only)

Enter umn as the company domain to connect with your UMN account. When prompted, enter your UMN ID and password. 

Article by Karen Matthes, Extension Learning Technologies, klm@umn.edu