Skype is one of the most popular applications. This application allows users to make voice and video calls and chats over the Internet. Calls to other users within the Skype service are free, while calls to both traditional landline telephones and mobile phones can be made for a fee using a debit-based user account system.

Skype has also become popular for its additional features which include instant messaging, file transfer, and video conferencing.That makes it the absolute ideal service for anyone looking to save money on their phone calls.

Also see : How to Avoid Large Phone Bills When Travelling

I’ve put together this Beginner’s guide to using Skype to help get you started.

Requirements for Using Skype

Before you attempt to use Skype, make sure you have the right equipment. In order to use Skype, you will need the following items:

• A computer or laptop with Skype installed on the system.
• A headset, which has the option to work as a microphone and a speaker
• A webcam, if you wish to do a video chat.
• An internet connection.
• Small amount in your credit card, if you wish to use Skypein or Skypeout

How to Communicate using Skype?

If you want to communicate with your friends over internet from your PC to your friend PC, follow the below steps.

• Download Skype from here.
• Install it and create a Skype  account. [free of cost]
• You can find your friends with email addresses and add them one by one. You can also arrange to import your contact list from Gmail, Facebook, and a whole host of other domains.
• If your friends are online, then you can see a small green symbol besides their name.
• All you have to do to call them is to double click on their names and chat away. It’s that easy. Why not give it a try?

Note:

• If you wish to speak from your computer to their phone, then you will need a SKYPEOUT account.For this you need to pay some amount. You can check out various packages and tariffs in Skype website mentioned above.
• If your need to call your friend’s PC from your phone, then you will need a SKYPEIN account. This gives the phone number of your choice and country. 

How to Make Video Calls using Skype?

In order to set the Skype for a Video chat, follow the instructions given below.

• First prepare your webcam.
• Then start Skype application and  go to Tools > Options > Webcam preferences .
• You will now be redirected to a page with an option “General Settings”.
• Select this option and setup the Skype webcam by following on-screen instructions
• Now, click on option “Enable Skype video”.
• You are now all set to use your Skype video calls.

So, now that you know how to use your Skype, why not go ahead and start chatting.