Skype is another step forward in communication technology that uses the computer and the Internet, to make phone calls. Founded by Niklas Zennstrm and Janus Friis, it is an online phone system that enables the user to make calls through his computer to another computer having the same system, or to call any other landline, anywhere in the world. In the former case, when you make a call from one computer to another, via Skype, you need not pay any money, but if you make a call from your computer to a landline, you would have to pay nominal charges. It is a very useful tool for people, who make a large number of calls, or for those, who wish to contact their family or friends, staying in another country or city.

Starting Up
The first step in being hooked up to the Skype system is, to visit their website www.skype.com and download their free software. You would also need to provide your personal information and register your user name and password. In addition, you need speakers and a microphone for making Skype calls. You can create a contact list on your computer, so that it becomes easier for you to make the calls. You can then click the Add button to add any new contact.

Calling a Skype Contact
If you wish to make a Skype to Skype call, all that you have to do is, to open Skype and click the contact you wish to call. You would then have to click the big green button, which is located at the bottom of the Skype screen. This will enable you to start your conversation. These calls are free.

Making Calls to a Landline
If you wish to call a landline from your Skype connection, you just need to click the "Call Phone" blue button on the top of the screen and enter the landline number on the dialing screen. You can start talking as soon as you press the big green button. As you have to pay for these calls, you should buy a Skype credit that will prove to be a cheaper option.

Making Video Calls
To make a video call, you need a Webcam, Speakers, and a Microphone. However, you will need to install Skype 2.0, in order to get started. Once, you install the webcam and speakers, the Skype will test speakers settings automatically.

Extra Features
You can install extra useful features in your Skype system such as, Voicemail for missed calls and Instant messaging program, like the Yahoo Messenger. The other salient features of Skype are, voice and video conferencing, file transfer, ability to use decentralized technology, to combat Network address translation (NAT), and firewall problems, use of strong and transparent encryption and its strong defenses against reverse engineering of protocol.

Skype is a simple to use system, for staying in touch with people all over the world. It is cheap and its popularity is growing every day.

Skype and the Skype logo are trademarks of Skype Technologies S.A. U3