Microsoft Lync | How to Set Up Microsoft Lync for Your Business

Want to improve communication and collaboration in your business? Setting up Microsoft Lync is a great place to start. Follow this guide…..

Are you tired of trying to coordinate your next remote meeting via email? Are you looking for a way to remain connected and collaborate with colleagues worldwide? Microsoft Lync has all the features to make virtual meetings more efficient, productive, and secure. 

Whether you’re a remote team working together or want to connect quickly with a colleague abroad, Microsoft Lync has everything you need to facilitate quick collaboration. 

We’ll look at what the service offers, how it compares to its competitors, and how you can optimize its features for maximum impact. From learning to utilize Lync’s various integrations and critical elements to exploring its pros and cons, this guide will help you maximize your Microsoft Lync experience. 

UPDATE: Microsoft Lync is being replaced by Microsoft Teams, same features and capability but a new brand name. Check out here for the Updates.

What Is Microsoft Lync? 

We’re here to answer the question: what is Microsoft Lync? In short, it’s a unified communications platform that combines audio, video, and web conferencing into a straightforward package. It allows for quick and easy collaboration, regardless of location or time zone. 

The best part about Lync is its many helpful features and integrations you can take advantage of. The Microsoft Lync Recording Manager offers more control over recording audio and video meetings. Lync Web App lets you access appointments from your browser without installing software. 

Lync also has native Android and Mac OS X apps so that you can take advantage of its features on the go. Plus, it supports critical features like high-definition video, desktop sharing, instant messaging, and more! So, whether you’re in the office or working remotely, Lync has something to offer everyone. 

What is Microsoft Lync for Mac? 

Microsoft Lync is a communications platform designed to make team collaboration easier. It is built into Microsoft Office and is designed to help teams stay connected anywhere, anytime, making it an ideal solution for any organization. 

For Mac users, Lync provides a unified way to communicate and collaborate with colleagues and teams. With Lync for Mac, users can access all their contacts in one place and efficiently manage their conversations, calendars, and meetings. It also provides access to instant messaging, voice calling, and video conferencing services that work across mobile devices and desktops. 

The app also allows Mac users to record Lync conversations and share documents securely from the desktop or mobile device. Additionally, Microsoft Lync for Mac synchronizes with Microsoft Exchange Server so that users can sync their calendar data with other devices and receive email notifications when messages arrive in Outlook while working on something else. 

How Does Microsoft Lync Work 

We’ve all heard of video conferencing, but have you heard of Microsoft Lync? It’s a highly versatile instant messaging, video conferencing, and online meeting tool that lets you virtually connect with remote colleagues and customers. 

When it comes to using Microsoft Lync in your workplace, here’s what you need to know: 

1. The platform is a communications hub that enables you to collaborate with colleagues, customers, and partners worldwide. 
2. It’s straightforward to get the most out of Microsoft Lync – download the application onto your computer or mobile device, configure it for your communications needs, and start chatting or calling. 
3. You can also use Lync for file transfers and audio-only calls and save yourself from downloading additional software or programs. 
4. To ensure maximum impact and superb user experience, secure your internet connection is strong enough for optimal audio-visual quality when making calls or hosting meetings with large numbers of people. 
5. You can also choose from features such as messaging, group chat rooms, desktop sharing, whiteboarding capabilities, and more within Microsoft Lync’s communication interface. 
6. The platform also offers integrated applications such as Skype for Business that expand its capabilities exponentially, allowing you to broaden collaboration even more with broader communiqué options. 
7. Finally, MS Office users can access real-time document editing, making collaboration extremely easy even when working remotely on different devices (e.g., phones and tablets). 

Ultimately, no matter how global your business might be or wherever you work from, Microsoft Lync has covered you! 

Microsoft Lync Key Features 

The key features of Microsoft Lync make it an ideal choice for remote meetings and collaboration.

First, it provides instant messaging and audio/video chat capabilities, enabling team members to communicate in real-time. 

Furthermore, it facilitates screen sharing—so if you need to demonstrate a concept or give a presentation, Lync provides an efficient platform. 

In addition to its basic features, Lync offers more advanced options. For example, with the Lync Recording Manager, you can easily record meetings and store them in your cloud storage for later retrieval. 

It also has a built-in web app that allows users to log in from any web browser on any device—allowing for easy access from anywhere in the world. 

Additionally, the app offers Android versions for 2010 and 2013, enabling individuals to stay connected on the go! 

Microsoft Lync also provides data security and strong encryption, helping to ensure that data is protected from malicious threats. The app supports the AES-128 and AES-256 encryption standards and offers end-to-end encryption, preventing data from being intercepted or accessed by unauthorized individuals. 

Furthermore,

Lync also requires Multi-Factor Authentication, which requires users to verify their identity with another factor before logging in. 

The platform also provides advanced analytics and reporting so that administrators can monitor usage and performance. This feature allows them to manage better and optimize the Lync system, uncovering areas that need improvement and helping to ensure that the system remains up to date. 

Overall, Lync can provide businesses with various features that make remote collaboration more efficient and effective. By utilizing the audio/video chat capabilities, the screen sharing features, and the multi-factor authentication, businesses can rest assured that their data remains secure while allowing remote workers to stay connected no matter where they are.  

Furthermore, with analytics and reporting tools, admins can keep their Lync system operating smoothly and ensure it is utilized as efficiently as possible. 

Microsoft Lync Alternatives 

If you’re not interested in Microsoft Lync, you do have options. Here are a few of the significant alternatives: 

• Zoom – Zoom is a cloud-based video conferencing assistance that offers a variety of features such as H.D. video and audio, screen sharing, whiteboarding, breakout rooms, and more. It also provides a reliable mobile app. 
• GoToMeeting – GoToMeeting is an easy-to-use online meeting platform with desktop and mobile options. You can collaborate in real-time with audio and video calls, share screens, and have unlimited meetings with up to 250 participants. 

• Cisco Webex – Cisco Webex is another popular choice for enterprise-level companies thanks to its features like high-quality audio/video calls, screen sharing, whiteboarding, and file sharing. Plus, there’s a mobile version for iOS and Android devices. 
• CrankWheel – CrankWheel is an advanced screen-sharing and collaboration platform allowing you to quickly and easily share your screen with anyone in real-time. It lets you instantly present rich content, demos, shares slides, or any document with your colleagues or customers, with no setup or downloads required.
   

Before deciding which platform works best for your company’s needs, it pays to compare different features to ensure you get the fairest value for your money. 

Benefits of Microsoft Lync 

As technology advances, more companies turn to Microsoft Lync for online meetings, collaboration, and communication. There are a variety of advantages to using this platform that makes it an attractive option for business professionals. 

Streamlined Collaboration 

Microsoft Lync provides users with a streamlined way to conduct collaborative meetings, allowing them to share documents and presentations easily. It makes working together on projects much quicker and easier than ever before. 

Additionally, Meeting invitations can be sent out directly through the platform, allowing members of teams to quickly join virtual meetings without having to go through a long email chain or complicated call setup process. 

Enhanced Communication 

Lync also enhances communication by providing features such as instant messaging, which enables users to quickly send text-based messages back and forth without waiting for an email response or delaying their Work until face-to-face conversations can come. 

In addition, a rich presence feature makes it easy for people to know when someone is available for an online meeting or video chat in real time. It makes scheduling online conversations more accessible than ever. 

Productivity Boosts 

Another great benefit of using Microsoft Lync is the productivity boosts with collaboration tools like document sharing and conference calling. By leveraging these features within Lync, teams can make decisions faster, brainstorm ideas more quickly, and finish projects in less time than usual if working face-to-face or exchanging emails via traditional methods. It also helps reduce misunderstandings as everyone is always on the same page during collaboration. 

Easy to Use 

Microsoft Lync also has a user-friendly design, which makes it easy for even tech-averse users to learn how to utilize its many features quickly. Its intuitive design allows users to jump right in, whether they’re just starting out or already have some experience with other online collaboration tools. 

Integrations 

The platform also includes powerful integrations with other Microsoft products, such as Office 365, making professional collaboration smoother. This integration ensures that everyone shares documents and messages in the same format so that any changes instantly update across all participants in the online meeting. In addition, Lync also supports integrations with Skype, making it easy for users to join and invite others to their virtual meetings. 

Security Features 

Microsoft Lync also provides robust security features, such as data encryption, which helps protect user data from cyber threats. Additionally, cloud-based storage and automatic backups help keep all data safe and secure in case of a system failure. It gives users the peace of mind that their projects are safe from malicious actors or natural disasters. 

These are just some benefits of using Microsoft Lync for online meetings, collaboration, and communication. By leveraging its high-quality features, businesses can ensure their teams can work quickly, seamlessly, and securely. 

How To Use Microsoft Lync for Online Meetings 

We have often been asked how to use Microsoft Lync for online meetings and are here to provide a comprehensive guide. Microsoft Lync is great for connecting with others efficiently, quickly, and securely. 

To get started on your first video meeting with Microsoft Lync, follow these steps: 

1. Download the App: Before you can start using Microsoft Lync, you’ll need to download the app. A full version of the app is available for Windows and Mac computers. Additionally, there is the Web App version that you can use if downloading apps is not an option now. 
2. Invite Your Participants: Once you’ve downloaded the app and launched Lync, it’s time to invite your participants. Inviting participants is easy! Click on the “people” icon in the top navigation bar, select from your contacts list, or search for a specific contact or group of contacts if desired. Enter a message indicating when and why you want to meet with them online and click “Send Invitation” to complete the process. 
3. Start Your Meeting: Once everyone has accepted your invitation and logged into their accounts on Lync, go back to your main screen and click “Meet Now” to start your meeting. It’s that easy! 

It’s an easy process that will make your next video meeting as efficient as possible! And don’t forget—you can also use other features, such as screen-sharing capabilities and recording meetings—to make collaboration even easier! 

How To Use Lync Recording Manager 

If you want to maximize the result of your Microsoft Lync meetings, consider utilizing the Lync Recording Manager. This helpful tool lets you record and manage your appointments afterward. 

Here’s how to use it: 

1. Select Start Recording from the Tools menu in Lync to start a recording. 
2. When the session finishes, choose Stop Recording from the same menu 
3. All recordings are saved as “.wrf files” and stored on your P.C. or a shared server location that you have permission to access 
4. With Lync Recording Manager, you can name recordings, categorize them by tag or type, and edit and trim them before publishing. 
5. You can also create customized media permissions for different types of recordings and create reports on user activity. 
6. Recordings can be published to external media sites like YouTube so that anyone with proper access can view them online. 

As a result, within minutes, you’ll have a polished presentation of your meeting available for everyone’s viewing pleasure! 

How To Use Microsoft Lync 2013 for Android 

We live in a world where mobile solutions are becoming increasingly important, which is why Microsoft Lync 2013 for Android is such an asset. It’s the perfect way to stay connected with colleagues and business partners on the go. This solution means you can start or join online meetings, send instant messages, or share your screen from anywhere. 

Here’s how to earn the most out of Microsoft Lync 2013 for Android: 

1. Download the app from either Google Play or the Amazon App Store – it’s free! 
2. After signing in with your Microsoft account [or creating one if you don’t have one], you can see who can chat and make video/audio calls directly from your device. 
3. By sending them a link, you can invite people to join an online meeting – whether they use Lync, Skype, or another platform. 
4. To make a call, select someone from your contacts list, hit “Call” in the top right corner, and hit “Video Call” if you want to add video on top of audio support (don’t forget to check that they have a video-capable device first!). 
5. Once you’re in an online meeting, enjoy features like screen sharing so that everyone can see what you’re talking about quickly and easily! With Microsoft Lync 2013 for Android, you always connect wherever you go! 

How To Use Microsoft Lync 2010 for Android 

If you want to use Microsoft Lync on an Android device, Lync 2010 for Android app is the way to go. This app is designed for use with a Microsoft Exchange server and a Lync Server—so if your organization uses an older version of Exchange or Lync Server, you’ll have to upgrade to make the most out of it. 

Once you have the necessary prerequisites in place, here’s how you can get started: 

1. Download the app from the Google Play store, and once installed, open it up. 
2. Fill in your email address, password, and server address (ask your I.T. support team first if you’re unsure what these are). 
3. You’ll then see two options—to open as a Guest or with a Work account. Choose Work if you’d like to sync contacts from Exchange or Lync Server. 
4. When you have done, all your contacts will be available in one convenient location, and you’ll be ready to make video calls and share presentations with colleagues worldwide! 

Microsoft Lync 2010 for Android is a significant way to remain connected while on the go and collaborate with colleagues while avoiding long-distance traveling costs! 

How To Make Microsoft Lync Stay Active 

We understand that the last thing you want is to log back in every 10 minutes while you’re in your online meeting—so how do you ensure Microsoft Lync stays active? 

Stay Connected Tool 

First, you should use the Stay Connected Tool for Mac and P.C. users. This tool lets you select how long it will take for Microsoft Lync to go idle before automatically logging out. Going this route will ensure that your presence status remains active, so people can easily reach you when needed. 

Keep Online Option 

The second option is the “Keep Online” button on the main window at the top right-hand corner of your Lync window. Turning this option on prevents your session from going idle or timing out during a meeting. Since this option controls the system from going idle, we recommend using this feature only when necessary. 

With these easy tips, you can ensure that Microsoft Lync remains active while keeping your presence status visible to everyone in the meeting. So, keep these tips handy and enjoy uninterrupted online meetings with Microsoft Lync! 

How To Add a Contact to Microsoft Lync 

Adding contacts to Microsoft Lync is incredibly easy and efficient. You can quickly add a contact within the Lync app or through Outlook or Communicator. 

Here’s how to add a contact to Microsoft Lync in a few simple steps: 

Add contacts in the Lync app. 

• Open the Lync app on your device and sign in with your account. 
• Click on the ‘Contacts’ tab at the top of your screen. 
• In the search box, type in your contact’s name or email address, then select ‘Add’ when their profile appears. 
• Once you’ve added them, you can start an I.M. conversation or invite them to join your online meeting – it’s that easy! 

Add contacts from Outlook or Communicator. 

• Open up Outlook on your device and log into your account. 
• Select the ‘Contacts’ tab underneath your screen and click ‘New Contact.’ 
• Now type in your desired contact’s name or email address and click ‘OK’ to add them as a contact on Outlook/Communicator and Lync (you must sign in to both for this step). 
• You can now start an I.M. conversation, set up online meetings, make voice calls – whatever you need! 

Adding contacts with Microsoft Lync is easy once you get used to it, so don’t be afraid to try it! 

How To Close Microsoft Lync 

If you finish using Microsoft Lync for the day, it’s essential to close it properly to protect yourself from unauthorized use of your account. Here’s how: 

1. Select “Sign Out” on your desktop client in the top right corner. 
2. On the web app, check the settings icon and then select “Sign Out” again. 
3. On your mobile device, check the settings icon and choose “Sign Out.” 

By adequately closing Microsoft Lync each time you use it, you can ensure your information is safe and secure. When in doubt, make sure you sign out of Lync–it only takes a few seconds and can go a long way in keeping your account information safe. 

How To Use Lync Web App 

Now that you know the basics of Microsoft Lync, it’s time to get familiar with a little more advanced: Lync Web App. Lync Web App is an ideal way for users to join a meeting remotely—no additional downloads or software installation is required! All the user needs are an internet connection; from there, they can join almost any discussion. 

Plus, with Lync Web App, you can: 

• Participate in a group chat before or after a meeting. 
• View shared presentations and even add notes. 

• Create whiteboards and brainstorm ideas with team members. 
• Download documents from the shared folder. 
• Record conversations and make recordings available for reference later on or share directly with other interested parties 
• View participant video feeds and make audio calls if your device has a microphone or webcam. 

Lync Web App is accessed on almost any device – desktop computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone – making it the perfect tool for remote team members who need as much access and connectivity as their office counterparts. 

Microsoft Teams [Lync] costs 

Lync is free with Office 365, or you can purchase a plan from a Microsoft Licensing Partner. Microsoft prices its programs based on the size of your organization. 

For example, if you have up to 50 people, you’ll qualify for the Small Business plan – which will cost you $6 per user per month.  

You can purchase the Business Premium plan for larger organizations, which runs up to $22 per user monthly. 

You may also qualify for discounted rates if you’re an educational or governmental organization. With Microsoft Lync, you can create one unified platform for communications, making it easy for everyone in your organization to connect quickly and easily. 

No matter how you purchase Microsoft Lync, always using the most up-to-date version is crucial. Microsoft releases patches and updates to Lync monthly, so take advantage of them to ensure your security and peace of mind. With these updates, you can rest assured that you’re getting the most out of Microsoft Lync and that your conversations are kept safe and secure. 

Microsoft Lync is an excellent tool for connecting people in your organization, whether in the same office or thousands of miles away.

With the ability to add contacts quickly and securely, share documents, and effortlessly join online meetings, it’s a perfect way to stay connected and collaborate. So, why not give Microsoft Lync a try? 

Microsoft Lync Integrations 

One of the key benefits of using Microsoft Lync is that numerous integrations make your remote conferencing sessions even better. For example, Lync features deep integration with Office products, such as Outlook and Skype for Business, so you can access all the resources you need without switching between applications. 

You can also integrate Lync with cloud services like Yammer and SharePoint Online. This feature helps bring conversations and documents into a single platform, so everyone can participate in the meeting and access the same information regardless of location. 

Additionally, you can integrate Lync with various third-party applications, such as CRM software like Salesforce or cloud services like Dropbox. This option makes it easy for teams to collaborate on projects or review documents in a single workspace. Plus, all of these integrations work seamlessly with the Lync interface. 

Pros and Cons of Microsoft Teams [Lync ]

When it comes to Microsoft Lync, there are some key features that you need to consider. We’ve listed out the pros and cons of Microsoft Lync below: 

Pros 

• Microsoft Lync integrates with various external applications, like Skype and Yammer, for easier collaboration. 

• It is secure and scalable, so your meetings are automatically safeguarded from intruders. 
• It’s versatile enough to be used by both small businesses and large enterprises. 
• You can use the constantly updated mobile apps on both Android and iOS devices. 
• The web app is available for anyone that doesn’t have the desktop client tools installed. 
• The Lync Recording Manager allows you to store recordings for easy playback when needed. 

Cons 

• All participants must install the exact version of the Microsoft Lync software to join a meeting. 
• A dedicated server can be expensive if you want full scalability and reliability. 
• Some features, like screen sharing and VOIP calls, are only available with advanced premium subscriptions. 
• There is no native support for Mac users. However, you can use an alternate client, such as Spark. 

F.A.Q.s About Microsoft Teams [Lync]

We know it can be challenging to understand all the features and capabilities of Microsoft Lync, so we’ve compiled a list of F.A.Q.s you can use to get the most out of your Lync experience. 

What is Microsoft Lync?

Microsoft Lync is an enterprise messaging and communications platform that enables you to host online meetings, streamline collaboration, and stay connected no matter where you are. It works with both Windows and Mac operating systems. 

What is Microsoft Lync for Mac?

Microsoft Lync for Mac gives users the same features and capabilities as the Windows version, with a few minor changes to accommodate the macOS experience. It has all the same options for video conferencing, instant messaging, file sharing, screen sharing, and more! 

How does Microsoft Lync work?

Microsoft Lync offers several ways to stay connected with coworkers or clients: desktop or mobile applications (for Windows or Mac), voice calls, video conferencing, instant messaging, file sharing, screen sharing, and more! 

You can integrate other applications like Skype or Skype for Business into your setup for additional functionality. Microsoft Lync offers an unparalleled communications experience that helps streamline collaboration and maximize productivity. 

With these F.A.Q.s as your guide, you will be equipped with everything you need to make the most of this powerful platform! 

Conclusion 

Microsoft Lync is a powerful communication tool to facilitate online meetings, collaboration, and virtual events. It’s excellent for those seeking an easy-to-use and secure platform for group communication and collaboration needs. 

Lync’s essential features, such as the Lync Recording Manager, the Lync Web App, and dedicated mobile apps, make it one of the most comprehensive and customizable solutions. 

Whether hosting a significant event, running a meeting, or just catching up with colleagues, Microsoft Lync provides a comprehensive solution to ensure effective communication. With its ease of use, security, and numerous features, Microsoft Lync can help you get the most out of your online meetings and collaborations.