As the coronavirus spreads and public gatherings are restricted, more people are turning to the internet to stay virtually connected with friends and family.

Virtual conferencing programs like Zoom, Skype, Facebook Messenger, HouseParty and JusTalk are popular ways people are staying in touch.

Editor-in-Chief of Lifewire.com Lance Ulanoff says the video conferencing programs are relatively easy to use, even for people who have never used one before.

Melanie and Ali Adlah have been using video conferencing apps to keep in touch with family.

"Absolutely it's changed a lot. I mean everything from checking in with our neighbors, our friends, families, it's really absolutely changed things," said Ali Adlah.

Some adults are even using the platforms for virtual cocktail parties and meet-ups. But Ulanoff says though the chats can be fun, it's important to know you're "on camera" for these meetings. And if they are with work colleagues, classmates or others, it's good to look your best and remember some simple video conference etiquette.

"Be on time, don't show up late - people will notice. Be refreshed, take a bathroom break, eat your food, do all of that before you get on camera," said Ulanoff.

Some of these video conferencing programs have seen explosive growth. Mobile data analytics firm Sensor Tower says Zoom added nearly 20 million new mobile customers last week.

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