Cluster: Zoom Admin How-To

Primary Keyword: zoom alternative host cannot be selected at this time

How to Add an Alternative Host in Zoom (Step-by-Step)

Using Zoom for online meetings and classes has become an essential part of communication for many organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. One powerful feature of Zoom is the ability to assign an alternative host to your meetings. An alternative host can help manage your meetings, especially in large organizations where admin duties are shared. However, many users encounter a frustrating message: “Zoom alternative host cannot be selected at this time.” In this article, we will guide you through the process of adding an alternative host, explain why you might see this message, and offer solutions to common issues.

Understanding how to properly use the alternative host feature will ensure a seamless experience for both admins and hosts. Whether you are an educational administrator setting up classes or an IT support professional assisting your team, knowing how to troubleshoot the “zoom alternative host cannot be selected at this time” error is crucial for maintaining efficiency.

What is an Alternative Host in Zoom?

An alternative host is another user who can start a Zoom meeting on behalf of the original host. This feature is particularly useful for organizations that have multiple team members conducting various meetings. By enabling an alternative host, you can ensure that meetings continue smoothly if the primary host is unavailable. The alternative host has almost the same privileges as the main host, including managing attendees and sharing their screen.

How to Add an Alternative Host in Zoom

Let’s walk through the steps to add an alternative host in Zoom. This process can be completed either through the Zoom web portal or the desktop application. The web portal is recommended for most users as it provides a more comprehensive view of settings and options.

Step 1: Sign in to the Zoom Web Portal

• Go to the Zoom website.
• Click on “Sign In” at the top right corner of the page.
• Enter your email and password.

Step 2: Navigate to the Meeting Settings

• Once logged in, select “My Meetings” from the left-hand menu.
• Choose a meeting you wish to edit or schedule a new one.

Step 3: Adding an Alternative Host

• Scroll down to the “Advanced Options” section on the meeting settings page.
• Locate the “Alternative Host” field.
• Enter the email address of the user you want to designate as an alternative host. Ensure this user is part of your Zoom account or organization.
• Click “Save” to apply the changes.

Common Issues and Solutions

After following the steps above, you may still encounter the message: “zoom alternative host cannot be selected at this time.” Here are some common reasons for this issue along with their respective solutions:

Issue	Description	Solution
Email Not Recognized	The email entered may not belong to a Zoom user in your organization.	Verify that the user has a Zoom account and is added to your organization.
Incorrect Permissions	Your account may not have permission to assign alternative hosts.	Contact your account admin to check your role and permissions.
Scheduled Meeting Type	Alternative hosts cannot be assigned for some types of meetings.	Ensure you are trying to assign an alternative host to a Zoom meeting and not a webinar.

Understanding Alternative Hosts Limitations

Before you proceed to assign alternative hosts, it’s important to note some limitations:

• Alternative hosts must belong to the same Zoom account. You cannot assign someone from a different organization as an alternative host.
• You can only set alternative hosts for scheduled meetings, not for instant meetings or meetings scheduled through a personal room.
• The alternative host cannot be an alternative host for another meeting at the same time.

Best Practices for Assigning Alternative Hosts

Here are some best practices to consider when working with alternative hosts in Zoom:

• Communicate Clearly: Ensure that both the primary host and the alternative host understand their roles and responsibilities during the meeting.
• Test Before the Meeting: It’s advisable to conduct a test meeting to familiarize the alternative host with their controls and what to expect.
• Keep Backup Options: Always have a backup plan in case both the host and alternative host are unable to attend the meeting.

Troubleshooting Further Issues

In addition to the common issues already covered, here are some further troubleshooting suggestions if you still encounter problems:

• Check Account Configuration: Go to account settings in your Zoom web portal. Make sure the settings related to alternative hosts are enabled.
• Contact Zoom Support: If all else fails, reach out to Zoom Support for assistance. They can provide account-specific insights and solutions.

Conclusion

The ability to assign alternative hosts in Zoom is a powerful tool that ensures your meetings continue smoothly even when you’re not available. Understanding the nature of the “zoom alternative host cannot be selected at this time” message can save you time and hassle when organizing meetings.

By following the aforementioned steps and keeping in mind the common issues and their solutions, you can efficiently add alternative hosts and ensure that everything runs smoothly during your meetings. When used effectively, this feature can enhance collaboration within your team and help maintain continuity in communication. Remember to keep yourself updated with Zoom’s platform and policies, as features may change over time.