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Stop Freezing on Zoom and Google Meet | Easy Fixes

  • Writer: netventures2
    netventures2
  • Aug 17
  • 4 min read

published 8/17/2025

Freezing on zoom | Feezing on Meets
Why do Zoom & Meet calls keep freezing?

Why does my video call keep freezing?

If you’ve been in the middle of an important virtual meeting and someone says, “You froze!”—you know how frustrating it can be. Zoom and Google Meet freezing issues are among the most common remote-work problems today.

The good news: you can fix them. In this guide, we’ll cover the top reasons Zoom and Google Meet freeze, how background choices affect performance, and the best fixes to stop video call lag once and for all.


Why Does Zoom or Google Meet Keep Freezing?


Freezing in video meetings usually comes down to three main factors:

  1. Internet Connection ProblemsA weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection is the #1 reason Zoom and Google Meet freeze. If your upload speed dips, your video lags, your audio cuts out, and eventually—you freeze.

  2. High CPU UsageVideo calls are resource-intensive. Running too many programs, using virtual backgrounds, or working on an older device can push your CPU to the limit, causing choppy video.

  3. Platform or Device IssuesSometimes Zoom or Meet servers are overloaded. Other times, your webcam drivers or outdated hardware are the bottleneck.


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CPU Usage: How Backgrounds Affect Zoom & Google Meet Performance


Your choice of background has a direct impact on performance. Virtual backgrounds and effects look great, but they can use 2–4x more processing power than plain video.

Background Type

Approx. CPU Usage Impact

Performance Notes

No background (plain video)

Low (5–10%)

Smoothest performance; best option if you freeze often.

Static image background

Moderate (10–20%)

May lag slightly on older laptops.

Blurred background

Moderate–High (15–30%)

Continuous processing; can cause freezing if CPU is weak.

Animated/looping background

High (30–40%)

Heavy load; often triggers video lag.

AR filters/effects (masks, avatars)

Very High (40%+)

Most likely to cause freezing during calls.

Pro tip: If you keep freezing, switch to a plain or blurred background to reduce CPU strain.


How to Fix Zoom and Google Meet Freezing Issues


Follow these steps to improve performance and stop freezing:


  1. Improve Your Internet Connection

    • Use a wired Ethernet connection for the most stable experience.

    • Move closer to your Wi-Fi router or use a mesh Wi-Fi system.

    • Aim for at least 5 Mbps upload speed for smooth video calls.

  2. Reduce CPU Load

    • Close unused programs, especially video streaming or cloud sync apps.

    • Restart your computer before big meetings.

    • Turn off unnecessary Zoom filters and virtual backgrounds.

  3. Adjust Zoom & Google Meet Settings

    • Lower video quality in platform settings.

    • Disable HD video if your device struggles.

    • Turn off background noise suppression unless needed.

  4. Update Hardware & Software

    • Keep Zoom/Meet apps updated.

    • Install the latest webcam drivers.

    • If your device is 4+ years old, consider upgrading RAM or moving to a newer laptop.

  5. Have a Backup PlanIf your computer freezes, rejoin the call from your phone. Zoom and Google Meet mobile apps are less CPU-intensive and use mobile data as a fallback.


Quick Fixes If You Freeze Mid-Meeting

  • Turn off your camera temporarily to keep audio smooth.

  • Leave and rejoin the meeting (often solves temporary glitches).

  • Use chat to let others know you’re reconnecting.


Final Thoughts: Stop Zoom Freezing

Freezing on Zoom or Google Meet doesn’t have to ruin your calls. By optimizing your internet, reducing CPU strain, and making smart background choices, you’ll enjoy smoother meetings and stress-free presentations.


If you’ve been asking, “Why does Zoom keep freezing?” now you have some potential solutions to fix it.


How do I stop video calls from freezing
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does Zoom keep freezing during my meetings?Zoom often freezes because of weak internet, high CPU usage, or outdated hardware. Using a wired connection and closing unused apps usually helps.

Q2: How do I stop freezing on Google Meet?To fix Google Meet freezing, improve your Wi-Fi or switch to Ethernet, lower video quality, and avoid resource-heavy virtual backgrounds.

Q3: Does using a virtual background make Zoom lag?Yes. Virtual backgrounds use extra CPU power, especially blurred or animated ones. For smoother video calls, use no background or a simple static image.

Q4: What internet speed do I need for Zoom and Google Meet?You’ll need at least 5 Mbps upload and 10 Mbps download speed for stable video calls. Higher speeds reduce the chance of freezing or lag.

Q5: What should I do if Zoom or Meet freezes mid-meeting?Turn off your video, rejoin the call, or switch to your phone’s app. These quick fixes usually restore smooth audio and video.


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