New updates to Zoom's desktop client software and mobile apps are now available for download for Windows, Android (at least in theory), and Linux

The update, Zoom 50, is designed to address Zoom's privacy and security issues as demand for video conferencing services explodes and people stay home to work

Zoom's improved security measures include stronger encryption, default passwords, and a new hub for easy access to important security settings

The most significant upgrade is that the service now uses the AES 256-bit GCM encryption standard, as announced by Zoom on its blog While this does not provide the end-to-end encryption that Zoom initially and erroneously claimed, it does make meetings much more secure

Business users will also be able to control the data center region where video calls are handled to address concerns about routing meetings through China Many of these new features were already available in Zoom's web interface

Zoom has also introduced several new password protections that appear to be designed to thwart Zoom bombing by trolls who disrupt random meetings

Passwords are now on by default for meetings hosted by Basic, Single License Pro, and K-12 customers Waiting rooms will also be turned on by default, allowing the host to control who enters the meeting

Business customers will be able to define the password complexity for their meetings (length, alphanumeric, and special character requirements) Cloud recording will also require a password by default

Zoom 50 will add an icon to the host's menu bar that takes you to the Security Hub for easy one-click control of all these features

Windows, Android, Linux, and Mac users can upgrade to Zoom 50 now You may be prompted to update when you open the client or app, or you can obtain the update manually in Zoom's download center

If you are using iOS, you will need to wait a little longer for Apple to review the update

Zoom's security enhancements come at a time of significant growth for the video conferencing service Last week, the company announced that daily Zoom conference participants had surpassed 300 million, a 50% increase since early April

Still, Zoom's privacy concerns have made headlines, and some companies and government agencies have banned its use Competitors are also swimming like sharks: Facebook recently announced a new free video calling product, Messenger Rooms, and Skype announced its free Meet Now service