Using a Host Key on Zoom

Overview

The host key is a 6-digit PIN used to claim host controls a meeting. You can edit or view your host key in your profile. This host key is applied to meetings you schedule.

You need to use the host key to claim host in these scenarios:

• After starting a PSTN-only personal audio conference (PAC) meeting.
• After joining a meeting by phone or an H.323 device.
• After joining a meeting using the Zoom client and join before host is enabled.
• After joining a scheduled meeting in a Zoom Room. In other words, joining by entering the meeting ID or personal meeting link in the Zoom Room controller.
• After joining a meeting using the meeting list in a Zoom Room. If multiple Zoom Rooms join a meeting, the first one to join becomes the meeting host. You can claim host by using the host key.

Customizing your host Key

You can edit and enter your preferred 6-digit host key. This host key is applied to meetings you schedule.

1. Sign in to the Zoom web portal.
2. In the navigation panel, click Profile. 
3. Scroll down to the Host Key section.
4. Select Show next to your Host Key to view your current 6-digit pin.
5. Select Edit.
6. Input the new host key desired and click Save.

Claiming host using the desktop client

Follow these steps if you need to claim the host role when you join a meeting and join before host is enabled. 

1. Join the meeting.
2. Click on Participants.
   
3. Click Claim Host at the bottom of the participants list.
   
4. Enter your host key. 
5. Click Claim Host.
   Once the host key is verified, you will have host controls in the meeting.

Claiming host when starting a cloud recording

If you do not enter the host key when initially joining, you will be prompted to enter the host key when starting a cloud recording.