Connecting: Internet Access and ZOOM Meetings

 

Low-cost connections to the internet on a low budget

Even if you don't use or can't afford cable service, you may be able to get internet access.


You can apply for a very low cost but quite adequate service from Comcast (if your residence is served by Comcast.)

Internet Essentials from Comcast brings affordable, high-speed Internet to your home so you can have greater access to homework, job opportunities, healthcare and benefits, education resources and more. When you’re connected, you’re ready for anything.

Signing up is easy and fast from your mobile device at

https://apply.internetessentials.com

You may qualify if you are eligible for public assistance programs like the National School Lunch Program, Housing Assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI and others.

Internet Essentials includes:

25/3 Mbps Internet service for just $9.95 a month plus tax.
New customers may be eligible for two months free.
No activation fees and no equipment rental fees.
 Option to purchase a computer for just $149.99 plus tax.
 Access to free Internet training online, in print and in person.
 A Wireless Gateway, delivering in-home WiFi at no additional cost.
 Unlimited access to Xfinity WiFi Hotspots.

https://internetessentials.com/

NOTE:You can get a rejection when you apply online.  But if you are rejected and COMCAST serves your building, just call them and apply over the phone.

Internet access by your phone

Your cell phone can give you internet access, and your carrier may be able to provide additional amounts of data usage. For example, T-Mobile has a reduced cost program for seniors and you can raise your data limits. Your phone may also be able to create a WIFI hot spot that would give your computer access to the internet.

 

ZOOM Basics

You don't need to sign up to join a meeting. Before the meeting begins, you will need to download the app for your computer or smartphone; you can do that in advance or you will get a link to do that before the meeting.

Allow a few minutes well in advance of the meeting to test your video and audio, and plan the video setup so you look your best.

ZOOM provides a series of short videos that clearly explain how to use zoom. https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us Start with "Joining a Meeting" and you're set for your first meeting.

FAQ: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206175806Using a smartphone.

To join a zoom meeting on Android phone, download the Android App https://zoom.us/download#mobile_app .

To join a zoom meeting on iOS, download the  iPhone/iPad app https://zoom.us/download#client_iphone