Google Meet might not be as ubiquitous as Zoom but, for many people, it’s the only way they get to see and speak to their colleagues face-to-face.
Now Google has announced that new IP range tools will help users optimize network and firewall access to improve security protections, such as ensuring the right people are accessing your call.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new features.
What’s Changing with Google Meet?
Google is bringing out a new range of official fixed IP addresses for non-Google Workspace users.
In jargon-free speak, this means that users joining Google Meet calls with personal (rather than a business) Google accounts or even joining anonymously, will be easily identifiable.
In practice, this means that Google Meet and your company’s IT department will be able to work out whether the person joining your call anonymously should be there, or whether they’re an impostor.
The changes will be coming into effect on March 1. Any old IP addresses old will no longer be in use.
Do Google Meet Users Need to Do Anything?
If you’re the Workspace admin at your company, you’ll need to update your firewall if you want to apply specific network rules for non-Google Workspace Meet traffic.
If you’re the network admin for a company that doesn’t use Google Workspace, it’s still worth updating your firewall to allow the new Google Meet IP addresses. This will ensure that your colleagues will be able to access Google Meet calls with other companies.
Fortunately, if you aren’t in the IT department, you won’t need to do anything. In fact, it’s unlikely that you’ll notice any significant changes — you’ll just enjoy the benefits of stronger security protocols.
Is Google Meet the Best Video Conferencing Option?
Google Meet is certainly a great choice if your company already uses Gmail and other Google services.
However, if your company isn’t already tied into the Google Workspace model, we’d suggest trying a different option.
According to our research, GoToMeeting, Zoom, and RingCentral Glip are the top three options on the market.
Find out more – 10 Best Conference Call Services for Business
GoToMeeting has great video quality, clear audio, and a simple interface. Prices start from $12 per month.
Zoom, on the other hand, is more expensive but packs in more advanced features to compensate. Prices start from $15 per month and it allows you to conduct big “town hall” style meetings, for example.
RingCentral Glip, has a strong free option and works great for longer meetings. But, be warned, the unlimited meeting time ends in July this year.
