What is happening? University’s central WebEx service, uwaterloo.webex.com, will be decommissioned.
When is this happening? Wednesday, April 30, 2025.
What is the impact?
- I’m using WebEx: Individuals currently using WebEx should plan to use an alternate centrally supported collaborative solution, such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom. Please refer to options for transitioning to another conferencing tool for synchronous or lecture streaming events.
- I’m using WebEx boards: Those using WebEx board displays and/or desktop communication devices currently provisioned via Cisco Hub will also need to make alternate arrangements for continued service. These individuals should contact Koorus Bookan directly for more information.
- I have WebEx recordings: WebEx Cloud recordings, if still required, must be downloaded prior to April 30, 2025. Please see instructions below.
How to download my recordings:
- How to download WebEx MP4 files
- How to download WebEx ARF files on Windows
- How to download WebEx ARF files on Mac
Motivation for these changes
Findings of the Web Conferencing Platform Review and Consolidation project found that throughout the pandemic, the immediate need for web conferencing platforms resulted in the rapid adoption of several different tools that enabled the University to continue, virtually, with classroom and administrative activities.
A survey issued in January 2022 to members of the campus community collected feedback on web conferencing needs and functionality requirements, with the goal of reducing the growing set of tools IST supports to a more sustainable offering.
A review of WebEx usage indicates a sharp decline in use of the service from the height of the pandemic to less than 80 active accounts currently. A separate initiative will aim to remove dormant accounts in the coming months.
Reducing the number of web conferencing platforms to a smaller, sustainable offering will provide a more consistent user experience for students, faculty, and staff across campus while allowing IST to develop an efficient and effective central support model.
Questions or concerns? Please submit a support ticket via the IST Help Portal and put the word 'WebEx' in the subject line.