Which Online Meeting Platform is Safer: Zoho or Zoom?

Diving into the depths of the online meeting landscape, two major contenders stand out – Zoom and Zoho Meeting. Each platform brings its own unique set of features and promises to keep your conversations secure and seamless. This article aims to compare and contrast these two giants, helping you make an informed decision about which platform might be safer for your needs.

Zoom Overview: Security Upgrades and User Experience

Zoom has long been considered the gold standard in online video conferencing. Known for its user-friendly interface and robust features, Zoom has continually evolved to meet the demands of businesses and individuals. One of the key aspects of Zoom's popularity is its ease of use, which has made it accessible even for those not well-versed in technology.

However, security has always been a contested area for Zoom. In early 2020, the platform experienced a significant security breach, leading to several companies suspending or banning its use. Following this, Zoom took significant steps to enhance its security. As part of a 90-day plan, the company committed to freezing new features in order to focus on security improvements. This initiative aimed at addressing the vulnerabilities that had been exploited.

The result was a lineup of 100 new features aimed at improving the service, including measures like Waiting Rooms and default passwords on all meetings. These features were designed to prevent unauthorized access and ensure that meetings are more secure. Zoom's commitment to security has been further bolstered by regular updates and patches to address any new threats that may arise.

Zoho Meeting: Built from Scratch for Privacy

Zoho Meeting, on the other hand, takes a different approach to privacy and security. This platform is built entirely by Zoho from the ground up, with a strong emphasis on user privacy and data security. Unlike Zoom, which has faced numerous security concerns, Zoho Meeting has been engineered with privacy as its core feature.

A key feature of Zoho Meeting is its commitment to not sharing user data with third parties for commercial purposes. This makes it a highly secure alternative for those who are concerned about privacy and data sharing. By keeping user data out of third-party hands, Zoho Meeting ensures that all conversations remain confidential.

In addition to data privacy, Zoho Meeting also offers features that enhance the security of your meetings. It provides robust encryption, ensuring that all communication within the platform is kept secure. Furthermore, the platform includes features like Waiting Rooms, which can be used to manage attendee entry into meetings, and default passwords, adding an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

Comparison and Conclusion

When it comes to online meeting platforms, the choice between Zoom and Zoho Meeting often comes down to individual preferences and specific needs. Both platforms offer a wide range of features, but their approaches to security and privacy differ significantly.

Zoom has made substantial strides in securing its platform, especially after facing challenges. The 100 new features launched as part of the 90-day plan are a testament to the company's commitment to security. While Zoom remains a popular choice for many, its history with security breaches presents a potential risk for some users.

On the other hand, Zoho Meeting stands out for its privacy-focused architecture and policies. It promises a higher level of security by not sharing user data with third parties, making it an attractive option for businesses and individuals who prioritize data privacy.

In conclusion, the choice between Zoom and Zoho Meeting ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. If your primary concern is ease of use and a range of features, Zoom may be the better choice. However, if security and privacy are paramount, Zoho Meeting offers a robust and reliable solution.