How to join a Zoom video call

Learn how to join a Zoom meeting on your phone or computer when someone sends you an invitation link.

Easy 5 steps Web ~8 min February 23, 2026
How to join a Zoom video call

What you will learn

In this guide, you will learn how to join a Zoom video call when someone sends you a meeting link. Zoom is a popular app used for video calls with family, friends, or doctors.

What you need

  • A phone, tablet, or computer
  • The Zoom app (free to download) or a web browser
  • A meeting link or meeting ID from the person who invited you

The steps

Step 1: Get the Zoom app

If you do not have Zoom installed, download it for free:

  • iPhone: Open the App Store, search for Zoom Workplace, and tap Get.
  • Android: Open the Play Store, search for Zoom Workplace, and tap Install.
  • Computer: Go to zoom.us/download and download Zoom Desktop Client.

When someone invites you to a Zoom meeting, they usually send a link (it starts with https://zoom.us/). Tap or click this link. The Zoom app will open automatically.

Step 3: Enter your name

If Zoom asks for your name, type the name you want other people to see during the meeting. This is usually your first name.

Step 4: Choose your audio and video

Zoom will ask how you want to join audio. Tap Join with Internet Audio (or Call Using Internet Audio). If you want others to see you, make sure your camera is turned on by tapping the camera icon.

Step 5: You are in the meeting

You will now see the other people in the meeting on your screen. To leave when you are done, tap Leave in the top right corner (or bottom on some devices) and confirm.

Helpful tips

  • Mute yourself: Tap the microphone icon at the bottom of the screen to mute yourself when you are not speaking. This keeps background noise out.
  • Gallery view: If you want to see everyone at once instead of just the speaker, tap Gallery View (usually in the top right or by swiping).
  • Chat: Tap the Chat icon to send text messages to everyone in the meeting without interrupting the speaker.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a Zoom account to join a meeting?

No. You can join most Zoom meetings without creating an account. Just click the link or enter the meeting ID.

Can people see me before I join?

No. When you join, Zoom shows you a preview of your camera. You can choose to turn your camera on or off before entering the meeting.

What if I cannot hear anyone in the meeting?

Make sure your phone or computer volume is turned up. When Zoom asks how to join audio, tap Join with Internet Audio or Call Using Internet Audio. If audio still does not work, leave and rejoin the meeting.

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