There are now a number of options available that allow people to video call friends or family via their computer. One of the most known and reliable options is Skype. Skype's most commonly used function-computer-to-computer calls-is a free service, and it's for this reason that Skype is one of the most efficient ways you can stay in touch with people. To use Skype, first follow these few easy steps.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Installing Skype
Step 1. Visit the Skype website
The address is, as one might guess, skype.com.
If you're using a tablet or mobile device such as an iPad or Kindle, perhaps the easiest way is to visit a "store" for the device, such as the App Store or Amazon Shop. Then search for "Skype."
Step 2. Click on the “Get Skype” link at the top right corner of the screen
Your computer may ask you if you want to download the installer file. Click "Yes."
- The file downloaded to your Windows computer will be titled SkypeSetup.exe, and is approximately 1.5 megabytes in size.
- For Mac computers, the title of the downloaded file will begin with "Skype" and end with ".dmg." There may be a number in between that describes the latest version of Skype that you have downloaded, but the numbers change frequently.
- For most mobile devices, simply click the "Get" or "Download" link (depending on your device) and the Skype program will start installing itself (which means you can complete the next few steps).
Step 3. Open the downloaded file and start the installation
- If using a Mac, double-click on the downloaded file. A window will appear with the Skype program symbol icon and the Applications folder. Move the Skype icon into the Applications folder and the installation process is complete.
- If you are using Windows, your computer may ask if you want to let the program make changes to your computer. Click "Yes."
Step 4. Complete setup and installation (if applicable)
If you are using a Mac or mobile device, this step may not be necessary. If you are using a Windows computer, there are a few more steps to complete.
- Skype will ask you what language you want to use, and you have to choose one (among the many options on the list).
- A box will appear that says "Run Skype when the computer starts" (this box is located under the language selection menu). The box is automatically checked, which means Skype will start every time you turn on your computer. You may want to uncheck it so you can decide for yourself when to run Skype.
- There is also a "More Options" option marked in blue. If you click on it, you can specify the location of the computer where Skype will be installed, and you can also specify whether you want the Skype icon on the desktop. Make your choice and click " I agree - next."
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The installer may ask if you also want to install "Click to Call." This is a program that can find a phone number on a web browser page and tag it. If you click on the tagged number, the call will be made via Skype. In most circumstances, these calls will not be free.
- The installer may also ask if you want to make Bing your default search engine and MSN your default homepage. If you don't want it, uncheck the box located on the left side of the window. After this question, Skype will start the installation.
Part 2 of 3: Adding Contacts
Step 1. Create a username and password
If you are not new to Skype, you can simply type in the username and password that you have used on other devices. If you're a new Skype user, click on "Create an account" on the first screen that appears after it's installed or turned on.
If you need to create a new profile, you will need to enter your name and email address
Step 2. Confirm the contact that Skype finds
Skype may find the contact itself via the email account you entered. If a list of potential contacts appears, look carefully to find anyone you might want to contact.
Step 3. Look for the “Add” icon
There will be an icon that looks like a shadow of a person with a "+" sign. If you can't find it, there's also a " Contacts " drop-down menu at the top of the Skype window. One of the available options is "Add Contact." Click this option.
Step 4. Find your friends or family
You can search for people using their full name, Skype username, or email address. Enter that information and then click "Search Skype."
- If you search for someone based solely on their name, chances are you'll find others who happen to have the same name as the person you're looking for. Take a look at his profile before you add him.
- If you're having trouble sorting through their profiles, contact them in another way and ask for their Skype username and email address. This specific information will be the easiest way to find it.
Step 5. Click "Add to Contacts"
This will not add him automatically. Basically you just send a request to have him added to your contact list, and he has to confirm. After confirmation, the contact will be added.
Part 3 of 3: Making Skype Calls
Step 1. Open the Skype program
Step 2. Enter the username and password, then log in
Step 3. Find the person in your contact list you want to talk to
This menu will be available on the Skype main screen.
Step 4. Click the name you want to call
You will see a symbol on your screen that looks like a video camera and another symbol that looks like a phone. If you click on the camera, you are making a video call and if you click on the phone icon, you are making a voice call only. Make the choice you want and make the call.
To clarify, all Skype-to-Skype calls (or calls to tablets or smartphones running the Skype app) that are sent using the internet only, are a free service. Calls you make to landlines or mobile phones will be charged
Step 5. End the call once you are done
In the Skype call window there will be a red icon with a phone facing down. Click this icon to end the call.
