What is Skype and what do I need to use it?

Skype is an excellent and revolutionary service that allows people to speak to one another just like they do on the telephone, only through the computer and the Internet.

Skype is very simple to use. It is free to download from the Skype web site (https://www.skype.com) and it is free to use with anyone else in the world that also has Skype on their computer. The great news does not stop there! Skype can also be used to make calls to regular business and house phone numbers as well as cell phones too. The price that Skype charges for these calls is absolutely rock bottom! International calls can be made to many countries for just 2 cents (Euros)! This was unheard of before Skype!

This technology has been a long time in the making. For many years, attempts were made to make phone calls through the Internet. The problem at that time was that there was not enough bandwidth so conversations would be dropped or reception was gargled. Paired with increasing amounts of bandwidth, Skype upped the standard and offered us a product that for the first time, made Internet phone calls feasible.

If your computer comes with built-in speakers and a built-in microphone, then you have everything that you need to use Skype. If not, don’t worry, you can still use Skype. You would need to purchase a headset with a microphone combined.

If you have family members overseas, Skype is a true opportunity to stay in touch and save money. Phone calls have never been so cheap! The thing to remember is that even if your family or friends overseas do not have Skype or a computer, you can still call them at extremely reduced prices by opening your own account with Skype and calling them.