Once you realize the money saving aspects of Skype, You will be tempted to try it. It would take less than 5 minutes and it is free. Just follow the 4 simple steps.

System Requirements

The requirements are minimal. I would not worry about this unless your computer is really really antique. My 10-year old P-II 400MHz PC works fine with Skype voice calls. See Skype System Requirements for more details.

Skype Client Installation

Download Software: For Windows, go to Skype Windows Download and click the "Download Now" button to download the Skype setup program; for Mac users, go to Skype Mac Download; for Linux users, go to Skype Linux Download.

Run the setup program you just downloaded and follow instructions.

If you do not have a Skype account, just click on the "Don't Have a Skype Name?" link on the welcome page to create one.

Test your system by calling "Echo123," which is a testing facility to ensure your system works. Make sure that your microphone and speakers are turned on.

Now you are ready to talk and chat with anyone on Skype. If you want to use any of the fee services (such as calling a regular phone), you have to sign up and pay for the services.

Install a webcam and try the video calls also.

Skype Services

Skype offers many outstanding services, some are free and some require usage fees (they have expenses too). In general, there are two ways to purchase Skype services - monthly subscriptions and pay-as-you-go. Follow these links to find out more and you will be pleasantly surprised by the low cost.

Skype Phones

If you are a casual Skype user, microphone and speakers will be sufficient; otherwise you should look into using Skype phones or Skype adapters. They are much more convenient and work like your regular phones.

There are many types of Skype phones - cordless, pc-less, desktop... Go to our Skype Phones index page and browse around to see what you need. For more details, see Skype Phones.

With Skype adapters, you can use your exiting phones. Browse our Skype Adapter index page for options. See Skype Adapater: Convert your regular phone to Skype phone for more details.

Skype Resource

If you have any questions, visit our Skype library, which has many useful information and tips regarding Skype and related products.