How to download Webex Events (for Mac)
Note: This article is for people using a Mac laptop or desktop computer only. We also have instructions for downloading Webex on Windows.
Live stages in the Ex Ordo Event Space are run using Webex. Before you can host or join a live stage, you’ll need to download and install Webex. The easiest way to do this is to join a rehearsal or live stage at the conference.
Note: To join a live stage, you must do this through the Ex Ordo Event Space - these sessions can’t be directly accessed through the Webex app.
IMPORTANT: If you have macOS Catalina or a newer OS version and you’ll be turning on your mic or camera, or screen sharing in a live event, you will need to give Security & Privacy permissions to Webex once you’ve installed it per Step 3.
Step 1) Check your device, software and browser
To use Webex, you’ll need
- A Mac laptop or desktop computer (not a mobile device).
- Mac OSX 10.13 and up.
- Chrome or Firefox internet browser.
Note: Linux devices and mobile devices like tablets and phones can’t access the version of Webex used by Ex Ordo. You won’t be able to access live stages with any of these devices.
Step 2a) Join a stage (Chrome)
Note: These instructions are for people attending or presenting on a live stage or rehearsal. If you’re hosting a stage, follow the instructions for starting a live stage instead.
1. With the Mac laptop or desktop computer that you’ll be using to attend the whole event, open the conference’s Event Space and find the stage or rehearsal you want to join. Click on the black triangle.
2. You’ll be brought to a Webex downloads page. Click “Add Webex to Chrome”. This Chrome browser extension will let you join Ex Ordo live stages. (Using Firefox instead? Skip to the Firefox section.)
3. You’ll be brought to the Chrome web store, click “Add to Chrome”
4. When asked to confirm, click “Add extension”.
5. Once you’ve confirmed, you’ll be brought back to the Webex download page, and a Cisco Webex add-on should start automatically downloading. You should see this in the bottom left corner of your screen.Note: Although this page mentions a temporary application, it’s important to note that this is missing important functionality for presenting on a live stage.
6. Next, double-click on “Install Cisco Webex Add-On”.
7. Click “Open” when prompted.
8. Once the app has launched, click “Join Event” inside the Webex app and you will be taken to the live stage or rehearsal.
Step 2b) Join a stage (Firefox)
Note: These instructions are for people attending or presenting on a live stage. If you’re a stage manager, follow the stage manager guidelines instead.
1. With the Mac laptop or desktop computer that you’ll be using to attend the whole event, open the conference’s Event Space and find the stage or rehearsal you want to join. Click on the black triangle.
2. Click “Add Webex to Firefox”
3. When asked, click “Continue to Installation”
4. Next, click “Add” to add the extension. This Firefox browser extension will let you join Ex Ordo live stages.
5. Next, double-click on “Install Cisco Webex Add-On”.
Step 3) IMPORTANT: Change your Mac security settings
If you have macOS Catalina or a newer OS version and you’ll be turning on your mic or camera, or screen sharing in a live event, you need to give Security & Privacy permissions to Webex. This can take some time, so it’s good to set these up in advance.
- Open System Preferences in your toolbar and then click “Security & Privacy”.
You’re ready to go. To join a live stage at the conference, you must do this through the Ex Ordo Event Space. These sessions can’t be directly accessed through the Webex app. Check out our article on how to join a stage from the Event Space.