What is video conferencing?
Video conferencing is a live meeting between people in different places using video and audio over the internet, usually with screen sharing and chat, from a browser, an app or a meeting-room system.
How video conferencing works
Each participant’s camera and microphone are captured, compressed and sent over the internet, and their device receives and plays everyone else’s streams. Depending on the service, the media goes directly between participants or through servers that forward it.
Video conferencing vs video calling
The terms overlap. A video call usually means two people or a small, informal group; video conferencing implies a scheduled meeting with several people, screen sharing and controls such as muting and admitting participants.
Video conferencing bandwidth
Standard-definition video needs a few hundred kilobits per second in each direction, and HD needs one to a few megabits; screen sharing adds a little. Upload speed is usually the limit at home. If a call stutters, turning off incoming video or your own camera frees the most bandwidth.
Video conferencing etiquette
- Mute when you are not speaking.
- Look at the camera, not your own picture, when you talk.
- Use the raised hand rather than talking over people.
- Say when you are recording, and why.
Video conferencing for small business
Small teams usually need reliable calls, guest access without accounts or downloads, and controls for client meetings more than they need large webinar features. Arkenso Meet runs in the browser, lets guests join from a link, and starts at $12 a month for five seats.
Last reviewed 2026-11-01.