An Introduction to Skype

Skype is an Internet-based service that started in 2003.  It allows you to make phone calls, video calls, chat, share files, etc.  According to Wikipedia, there are over 500 million business and individual user accounts on Skype.

So what do you need to use Skype?

• The Skype software,
• An Internet connection, and
• An input device

The Skype software is free at www.skype.com.  Using your Internet connection, download the software and install it on your desktop or laptop.

When you first start up the software, you will be asked to set up an account.  You select a unique ID and password.  As part of the set up, you can test various input devices (headset, microphone, camera, etc.) to make sure that they work correctly with Skype.

Once you’re set up, who can you communicate with and what will it cost?

• Communications from one Skype user to another are free.  That includes voice calls, video calls, instant messages, etc.
• Calls to 800 numbers are free.
• You can make calls from Skype to landline phones or mobile phones.  There is a charge for such calls, but it is very reasonable.  This part of the service is called Skype Out (I.e. “out” of the Skype service).  It takes a bit of set-up, but it is very competitive compared to other phone services.
• It is also possible for regular phones to dial to a Skype account.  This is called Skype In (I.e. “into” the Skype service).  I haven’t personally used this.

So why use Skype?  Here are some examples of how I have personally used Skype.  (Note: This is not an exhaustive list, but can give you an idea of the possibilities).

• Free calls (even video calls) to/from a child who is away at college.
• Free video conferences from my desk at the office to a colleague in Europe.
• A 20-minute call to a friend who was at a conference in Japan.  Total cost? $0.46.

If you haven’t used Skype yet, give it a try.  It can be very useful and save you a lot of money.