Skype Calling: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Beyond

Skype, a pioneer in the world of internet-based communication, has revolutionized how we connect with friends, family, and colleagues across the globe. From simple voice calls to feature-rich video conferences, Skype offers a versatile platform for staying in touch. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the ins and outs of making calls on Skype, covering everything from the initial setup to advanced features, ensuring you can confidently utilize its powerful communication capabilities.

Getting Started: Setting Up Your Skype Account

Before you can make calls, you’ll need to set up a Skype account. The process is straightforward, and here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Download Skype: Visit the official Skype website (www.skype.com) and download the application suitable for your device (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, or web browser).
2. Install the Application: Follow the on-screen prompts to install Skype on your device. The installation process is typically quick and easy.
3. Create an Account: Once installed, launch Skype. You’ll be presented with the option to sign in or create a new account. Click on “Create account.”
4. Choose Your Sign-Up Method: You can sign up using your phone number or email address. Select your preferred method and enter the necessary information.
5. Verify Your Account: If you used your phone number, you will receive an SMS verification code. If you used your email, you’ll receive a verification email. Enter the code to verify your account.
6. Create a Password: Choose a strong and secure password for your Skype account. It should be unique and easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess.
7. Profile Setup: Once your account is verified, you’ll be prompted to set up your profile. You can add a profile picture, a display name, and other personal details. This information will be visible to other Skype users.
8. Permissions: Grant necessary permissions when prompted, such as access to your microphone and camera. This will enable you to use the calling features effectively.

Congratulations! You now have a functional Skype account and are ready to start making calls.

Adding Contacts on Skype

Before you can call someone, you need to add them to your Skype contacts list. There are several ways to do this:

1. Search by Skype Name, Email, or Phone Number:
   • Click on the search bar at the top of the Skype window.
   • Enter the Skype name, email address, or phone number of the person you want to add.
   • Skype will display matching results. Click on the correct profile to view it.
   • Click the “Add to contacts” button.
2. Sync Contacts From Your Device:
   • Skype can sync contacts from your phone or device’s address book.
   • Navigate to settings or contact options within Skype.
   • Select the option to sync contacts, and Skype will identify users who also have Skype.
3. Sharing Your Skype Profile:
   • You can share your Skype profile with others, allowing them to add you easily.
   • Find the “Share profile” option in settings or profile options.
   • Share the provided link or QR code through text, email, or other messaging services.
4. Accepting Contact Requests: When someone adds you, you will receive a contact request. Review the request and accept it to add the person to your contact list.

Making a Voice Call on Skype: Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you have contacts, you can make voice calls. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Skype and Select the Contact: Launch the Skype application and select the contact you wish to call from your contact list.
2. Click the Audio Call Icon: In the contact’s chat window, locate and click on the phone icon (usually a handset). This initiates a voice call.
3. Calling In Progress: Skype will begin dialing the contact. You’ll see a screen displaying that the call is in progress.
4. Accepting the Call (On the Recipient’s End): The recipient will receive a notification of an incoming call. They must click the “Answer” button to accept the call.
5. During the Call: While on a call, you can:
   • Mute/Unmute: Click the microphone icon to mute or unmute your microphone.
   • Adjust Volume: Use the volume controls to adjust the call volume.
   • Add Participants: You can add more people to the call by selecting the “Add Participants” option (usually a + icon).
   • Share Screen: Share your screen with the other participants (if available in your version of Skype and subscription level).
6. Ending the Call: Click the red “End call” button (usually a phone icon with a down arrow) to terminate the call.

Making a Video Call on Skype: Step-by-Step Instructions

Video calls add a visual dimension to communication, enhancing the experience and making conversations more personal. Here’s how to make a video call on Skype:

1. Open Skype and Select the Contact: Launch the Skype application and select the contact you wish to call from your contact list.
2. Click the Video Call Icon: In the contact’s chat window, locate and click on the camera icon. This initiates a video call.
3. Calling In Progress: Skype will begin dialing the contact. You’ll see your own video feed and a screen indicating the call is in progress.
4. Accepting the Call (On the Recipient’s End): The recipient will receive a notification of an incoming video call. They must click the “Answer” button to accept the call.
5. During the Video Call: While on a video call, you have several options:
   • Mute/Unmute Microphone: Click the microphone icon to mute or unmute your microphone.
   • Turn Video On/Off: Click the camera icon to toggle your video on or off.
   • Adjust Volume: Use the volume controls to adjust the call volume.
   • Add Participants: You can add more people to the video call by selecting the “Add Participants” option.
   • Share Screen: Share your screen with the other participants.
   • Camera Selection: If you have multiple cameras, select your preferred one through the settings (usually found under the three dots or gear icon)
   • Background Options: Some versions of Skype allow you to change your background using options provided in the call settings to blur, choose a pre-defined background or upload your own image.
6. Ending the Video Call: Click the red “End call” button to terminate the call.

Group Calls on Skype

Skype also supports group calls, allowing you to communicate with multiple people simultaneously. Here’s how to create a group call:

1. Create a New Group Chat:
   • Click on the “New Chat” button, usually a + icon.
   • Select “New Group Chat.”
   • Give your group a name.
2. Add Participants:
   • Add contacts to your group from your contact list.
3. Start a Group Call:
   • Once you have your participants, click either the Audio or Video call icon located within the group chat to start a group call.
4. Managing Group Calls: During the call, you can manage participants (mute, remove, add others), adjust settings, and share screens if necessary.

Troubleshooting Common Skype Call Issues

Occasionally, you might encounter issues while making Skype calls. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting steps:

• Poor Call Quality:
  • Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and strong internet connection.
  • Restart Your Router: Try restarting your router to refresh your connection.
  • Close Unnecessary Applications: Close any other applications that may be using bandwidth.
  • Update Skype: Make sure you have the latest version of Skype installed.
• Microphone Issues:
  • Check Microphone Permissions: Ensure Skype has permission to access your microphone in your device’s settings.
  • Select the Correct Microphone: Verify that Skype is using the correct microphone (usually available in audio settings).
  • Test Your Microphone: Skype has an audio test option in the settings to check if your mic is working.
• Camera Issues:
  • Check Camera Permissions: Ensure Skype has permission to access your camera in your device’s settings.
  • Select the Correct Camera: Verify that Skype is using the correct camera (usually available in video settings).
  • Restart Skype and Device: Sometimes, restarting Skype and your device can resolve camera issues.
  • Check for Physical Obstruction: Make sure there isn’t anything covering your webcam.
• Call Drops or Disconnects:
  • Check Internet Connection: Unstable internet can cause call drops.
  • Restart Skype and Device: Restarting Skype and your device often fixes connectivity problems.
  • Update Skype: Make sure you have the latest version of Skype installed.

Advanced Skype Features for Calling

Beyond basic calling, Skype offers several advanced features that can enhance your calling experience:

• Screen Sharing: Useful for presentations, tutorials, or collaborative work, screen sharing allows you to display your screen to others during a call.
• Call Recording: Record important calls for future reference, (check local regulations and laws).
• Live Captions: Skype offers live captions, which displays real-time subtitles during calls, aiding accessibility.
• Call Forwarding: Forward calls to another number or device if you can’t answer on your main device.
• Skype Number: Purchase a Skype number that allows people to call you at a local number, regardless of where they are, just like a normal phone number, but it rings directly to your Skype account.

Best Practices for Skype Calling

To make the most of your Skype calls, here are some best practices:

• Test Your Setup: Before an important call, test your microphone, camera, and internet connection.
• Find a Quiet Location: Choose a quiet place with minimal background noise for clearer communication.
• Use a Headset: Using a headset with a microphone improves audio quality and reduces echo.
• Look at the Camera: When on a video call, try to look at the camera rather than your screen to maintain eye contact.
• Mute When Not Speaking: Mute your microphone when not speaking to avoid unnecessary background noise from disrupting the call.
• Be Professional: Especially during business calls, maintain a professional appearance and environment.

Conclusion

Skype is a powerful communication tool that can keep you connected with people across the world through high-quality voice and video calls. By following the steps and instructions outlined in this guide, you can confidently utilize Skype for both personal and professional communication. From setting up your account to mastering advanced features and adhering to best practices, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy seamless and effective communication with your contacts. So go ahead, start making calls, and explore all the ways Skype can keep you connected!