In short
Use Zoom’s recording controls to capture a meeting, then obtain a transcript through the supported cloud feature or an approved transcription service. Recording permission, file ownership and transcript access should be agreed before the meeting starts.
How to record a Zoom meeting as the host
In the desktop app, start the meeting and select Record. Choose computer or cloud recording when your account offers both. Stop when the session is finished and allow processing to complete. Make a short test before an important meeting to confirm audio and the view being captured.
How to record a Zoom meeting as a participant
Ask the host for permission to record to your computer, or ask them to make and share a cloud recording. Host and account settings determine which options appear. If the controls are unavailable, check permissions before assuming that another recording method is authorised.
Where Zoom saves recordings
Computer recordings are converted after the meeting and saved to the configured local folder. Cloud recordings appear in the account’s recording area after processing. Locate the finished files before closing down your workflow, and check who is allowed to view or download them.
How to get a transcript of a Zoom meeting
Use the supported cloud audio-transcription feature if your plan and settings include it. Otherwise export the audio and upload it to an approved transcription service. Notta is our preferred general note workflow. Direct audio capture is preferable to putting a room recorder beside laptop speakers.
Frequently asked questions
Can you record a Zoom meeting without the host knowing?
Use the host-authorised recording workflow and make participants aware. The existence of another capture method does not establish permission.
Can you record a Zoom meeting on the free plan?
Zoom supports computer recording in eligible desktop sessions when recording is enabled. Cloud recording and transcription have separate plan requirements.
How do I get a transcript of a Zoom recording?
Use the account’s available cloud transcription feature, or process exported audio in an approved service.