Skype is tool for online meetings which has not been used for a long time. It’s also a popular way to make phone calls, video chat, and chat, and much of it is free. Microsoft owns Skype, which is available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. you also can install skype on linux and use Skype in web browser . Here’s what you need to use Skype.
You cannot use Skype on a mobile browser.
What you need to use Skype
To use Skype, you need three things:
- Smartphone or computer that meets Skype system requirements which we will discuss below.
- Internet connection
- Microphone
You can use Skype Meet Now to set up free conference calls without having to register or download. If you want to set up a Skype account, you will need a Microsoft ID in addition to the above requirements.
If your computer has a built-in microphone, Skype will find and use it automatically. For video calls, you will also need a webcam or front camera on your device.
How to get a Microsoft ID
A Microsoft ID is similar to a Google account, where one username and password gives you access to the entire set of web services offered by Microsoft. If you already use these services or buy and download apps from the Windows Store, you can use this account to sign in to Skype.
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Go to the Microsoft account page and click » Create an account» .
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Enter the email address you wish to use.
We recommend that you use an account that is consistent with how you will use Skype, as this name and ID will be searchable by other Skype users. For example, if you will be making business calls, use your business email.
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Then choose a strong password that is hard to guess.
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In a separate tab or window, navigate to the email account you entered. Microsoft will send you a four-digit code to verify your account. Enter the code and you will have a Microsoft ID.
Use your Microsoft ID to sign in to Skype using either the browser version on web.skype.com, or the app you downloaded from Skype official website .
How to use Skype
Video calls and voice calls between two Skype accounts on any platform are free, but if you want to call a dedicated phone number, such as someone’s mobile number or landline, it’s worth paying. Also, be aware that if you use Skype on a mobile device or mobile hotspot, you will lose data.
Skype works the same on all different platforms, but they don’t always look the same.
How to make a skype call
If you know the Skype name of the person you want to contact, enter it in the search bar you see in the top left corner below your name.
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Click on the person you want to call and you will be taken to a window that fills most of the screen.
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There are three buttons in the top right corner. For a video call, press camera icon ; click to make a voice call phone icon .
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third icon, man and plus icon allow you to add someone to the call.
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When you click on the icon, Skype will «ring» the person until they answer.
Be sure to turn on the microphone and set up comfortable speakers and headphones. If you are using video, make sure the camera is also turned on.
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Making phone calls is even easier. Click on the phone pad button in the top left corner to open the dial pad.
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When you enter a number, it will appear at the top of the window.
If you are calling internationally, there will be a drop-down menu under this number that will add the country code so you don’t have to enter it first.
How to use Skype Meet Now
Skype Meet Now allows you to use Skype without an account or even an app. You can invite others to meetings using a unique URL and anyone can join using Skype on the web. Mobile users will need to download the app. You can record Meet Now calls and Skype will keep them for 30 days.
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Go to skype website and press » Create a free meeting», to create a meeting link (doesn’t expire).
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Click Share an invitation to invite members.
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You can copy the link or share it via Outlook Mail or Gmail.
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Click Start a call .
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Turn on audio and video if you like, and again click » Start a call» .
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Click red button End call when the meeting is over.
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To join a Meet Now call without signing in, tap » Join as Guest » .
How to answer and end a Skype call
When you receive a Skype call, your phone or computer will «ring». If you have muted your device, you will not hear the ringtone. but you will get a notification on the screen.
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To reply, click the pop-up window on your desktop or tap your phone screen.
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When the call is finished, press the red button with the phone in the center; it will be in the lower right corner of the call window.
Skype on Windows
Skype is very suitable for Windows. It will work with any computer running Windows XP Service Pack 3 or higher. However, you may also need to update your version of Internet Explorer: Windows XP SP3 will require you to update Explorer to at least version 8, and Windows 7 users will need to use at least Internet Explorer 11. These downloads can be found at Microsoft Internet Explorer. support page . Also note that if you are using a version of Windows prior to Windows 7, the Skype app will be the only supported method for making calls.
