How do I get Skype?
It simple to get Skype – it’s both free to download and easy to istall.



What is Skype?
Skype is a free program that you download on to your computer. Skype uses cutting edge peer-to-peer (p2p) technology allowing you to call other people on Skype for free as well as offering affordable, high-quality voice communications to phones and mobiles all over the world.

How does it work?
When you use the free Skype software, you can connect to other Skype users so that you can talk and chat. Behind the scenes, cutting edge p2p technology technology manages the connection for you.



How do I start using Skype?
To get started using Skype, you need to download our free software.

If you have any problems using Skype, please first make sure that you are using the most recent version of the software.

To download Skype to your computer:

- Simply download the software.
- Save the installation file to your computer.
- Be sure to remember where you saved the file (the desktop might be a good place).

Please also read also the user guides.

The first time you start Skype you must create a new user account. Select Don’t have a Skype Name from the sign in window then press enter or click Next in order to move on to the next level. Complete the empty fields. You will be asked to choose a Skype Name and password.

The Skype Name and password fields are required in order to use Skype. You can choose any name but it must be at least 6 characters in length and without spaces in between, such as JohnDoe or John_Doe or John123 etc. If the name is already in use, you will have to try again.

Check the box in front of Yes I have read and I Accept the Skype End Users License Agreement.

Finally press Finish.

How do I install Skype?
To install Skype, after clicking the download button, choose the option Open in the downloading window.

The installation process starts immediately after downloading without the need to click anywhere.

How do I make a call with Skype?
There are a few ways to call a contact:

- Right click a Skype Name in your contact list or the search result and select Start Call
- Select a Skype Name and then click the big green call button at the bottom of the window.

Can I use Skype with Windows 98 or Windows ME?
Because it hasn't been fully tested, we have not yet certified Skype for use with these operating systems. Skype may work with Windows 98 (Win98) or ME but we cannot yet guarantee compatibility. Some WinME/9x video (and possibly others) drivers tend to use 100% of processor for their needs for relatively long periods of time. This can cause the audio quality to degrade significantly. In addition, WinME/9x does not offer full unicode support, which means that some things may not display properly. Skype does not work on WinNT at the moment. We may support these platforms in the future and will make any future announcements on our website.

How much does it cost?
For non-commercial use, Skype-to-Skype calls will always be free. Some features and products of Skype require a paid subscription or pre-payment.

Our ambition is to keep the basic functionality of Skype like computer-to-computer calls free forever.

Can I use Skype to make 3-way or conference calls?
Yes you can! Skype allows you to speak with up to 4 other people at the same time! And with Skype cast you can speak with up to 100 people at the same time. Your computer's processor speed will determine how many people you can host on a conference call. The limit for all users is a ten person conference call (i.e. the host plus 9 others).

How do I answer a Skype call?
If someone is calling you, you will hear the sound of a telephone ringing and the Skype icon in your system tray will flash. Go to the Skype application (if not already visible) and select whether you would like to answer or reject the call.

As soon as you decide to answer a call, a two-way voice conversation will begin and the duration of the call will be visible.

How do I search for a contact?
To search for a contact so that they can be added to your contact list, select the Search for Skype Users option on the Contacts menu or click Tools > Search for Skype Users.

A new search window will open where you can search for friends by name, or any other information they have listed in their profile.

What is SkypeOut?
SkypeOut™ allows you to place calls to phones or mobiles all over the world for a small fee.

How do I call phones and mobiles?
You need to activate the SkypeOut service and make sure you have at least enough Skype Credit for a 1 min call to the country you want to call. You can then simply type a phone number into the address field and hit enter or call. To make a SkypeOut call, you must enter the number in the following way (even for local calls): "+" + "country code" + "number". You can also use "00" or "011" before the country code.

Examples (using the country code "1" for calling USA):

• +15555551234
  
• 00 1 555 555 1234
  
• 011-1-555-555-1234

What is SkypeIn?
SkypeIn is your own personal online number. With a SkypeIn number friends who aren’t using Skype can call you by dialing your SkypeIn number – you receive and answer the call in Skype no matter where you are in the world.

Does Skype contain any malware or spyware?
No. Skype never allows any malicious software or spyware to operate.