Video call basics

Joining your video call

SkillSwap uses a built-in video room — you don't need to install anything or share external links. To join a confirmed session:

• Open the Calendar page
• Go to the Upcoming tab
• Find your session — a Connect button appears 5 minutes before start time

Click Connect and you'll enter the SkillSwap video room in your browser.

What you can do in the video room

• Turn your camera on or off at any time
• Mute/unmute your microphone
• Share your screen (for code, slides, documents, etc.)
• Use chat alongside video if needed

Recommended setup

• Use a modern browser (Chrome, Edge, Safari, Firefox)
• Close heavy downloads, streams or background tabs that might slow your connection
• Use headphones to reduce echo and improve audio quality
• Choose a quiet, well-lit place where you won't be interrupted

Checking your camera & microphone

When you enter the video room, your browser may ask for permission to use your camera and microphone. Click Allow so the other person can see and hear you.

If something isn't working, try:

• Refreshing the page
• Checking that no other app is using your camera/mic
• Making sure your device's system settings allow browser access to camera & mic

Connection tips

• Prefer wired or stable Wi‑Fi over mobile data when possible
• If your video freezes, try turning your camera off for a while to save bandwidth
• If audio is choppy, both sides can refresh the page — you'll rejoin the same room

Ending the session

When you're done, simply leave the room or close the tab. The session is marked as Completed shortly after the scheduled end time.

Safety & comfort

You're always in control during a call. If you ever feel uncomfortable, you can:

• Turn off your camera
• Mute your microphone
• Leave the call immediately
• Block or report the user afterwards via the safety tools (see below)

For more details, read Video call safety.

Related articles

• How scheduling works
• Cancelling & rescheduling
• Video & audio issues