Skype Presentation By: B. Hardman Image used from Instructions used from

What is Skype? Skype is software that allows you to call, video call and instant message others totally free. Great rates to phones Save on calls to landlines and mobiles to home and abroad.

How do you get Skype? First you have to go the download page and check the system requirements. Next you can choose what OS you are using and download the Skype software.

System Requirements System requirements PC running Windows® 2000, XP, Vista or 7. (Windows 2000 users require Direct X 9.0 for video calls). Internet connection – broadband is best (GPRS is not supported for voice calls). Speakers and microphone – built-in or separate. For voice and video calls we recommend a computer with at least a 1GHz processor, 256 MB RAM and of course a webcam. For High Quality Video calls you will need a high quality video webcam and software, a dual-core processor computer and a fast broadband connection (384 kbps).

Setup & Options You download the software. Once download is completed you will be asked to create a new user account. Pick a username that your friends, co-workers and family will recognize as you or one that matches the branding on your other online accounts.

Setup & Options Contd. Next you’ll be asked to provide a valid address in case you need to retrieve a lost password. There is also a field you can complete that lets Skype know what country and city you are Skyping from – people are Skyping from nearly every corner of the globe. Once Skype has been successfully installed and your new user account created you’ll be taken to the Skype Welcome screen (see image above) where you can learn more about Skype services, check to make sure your equipment is working properly (microphone, headset, webcam) or find friends to call on Skype.

How do I make calls? Well, first you need to add a contact (someone to call). you send an introduction message to a person you are interested in adding to your contact list. Once they accept your invitation you will be notified when they are online and can call them (and they can call you!). Once you have people listed in your Contacts section, to make a call click on the person you want to call in your Contact list. Click the green Call button. To end the call click the red End call button.