Skype – What is All The Hype About?

Launching in 2003, Skype has been around for a good number of years and remains one of the easiest and cheapest ways to call family and friends around the world.

Skype is an internet calling application and is accessible through an array of different devices, including computers, phones and tablets.

So if you do not have Skype yet and would like to know more about how to set it up, read the simple steps below to get started.

• Sign up
  In order to sign up for Skype you need to go to the Skype home page and click on “Join us” on the top right hand corner.

• Choose how to log in
  Skype gives you option of logging in through Facebook, a Microsoft account or a Skype account. Remember that if you choose to log in with your Facebook account then you will be able to connect with your contacts that are on Facebook and chat to them via Skype.

• Download Skype
  Download Skype on your computer, phone or another Skype-friendly device for easy access.

• Remember to check audio and visual settings on your device
  Make sure that your speakers are on. Check that your voice can be heard clearly and check that your webcam is connected. Kyli Singh, author of the article A beginner’s guide to Skype shares some helpful information in making sure your settings are correct for good visual and sound quality.Singh states that you must “check your settings. For Mac users: click “Skype” at the upper left-hand corner and scroll down to “preferences.” Then click on the “audio/video” button”. For Windows users: Go to “call” and click “audio settings.” Below it, you will see “video settings.”

• Set up your profile
  Skype gives you the option to set up a profile and add some information about yourself. You can include a profile picture, and remember that you have the option of making the information that you add about yourself public, private or ‘friends only’In this section, you also have the option to change your mood to “Happy”, “Sad”, “Excited” etc. You can even set your status to “Online”, “Away”, “Do not disturb”, etc. These actions make your profile more personal and correspond to how you may be feeling on the day.

• Don’t forget privacy settings
  You can choose who you want to receive calls and videos from. You also have the option to block anyone that is harassing or annoying you.

• Add contacts
  Once you are set up with your Skype application you can add your contacts with the “Find your friends and say hello” application. You are also able to search for contacts that you would like to chat to and engage.