This online tutorial is split into 5 parts for ease of viewing.

You can also download and/or print out the entire tutorial in pdf form.

Introduction to Skype.pdf

(this is a large file and may take a little while to open)

Part 1: Getting Started

Part 2: Adding Contacts

Part 3: Making Calls

Part 4: Video Calls

Part 5: Skype Extras

Part 1: Getting Started

1. What is Skype and what can you do with it?

• Skype is an application which you install on your computer, laptop or mobile device.

• This provides a method of making phone calls using ‘internet bandwidth’ instead of your fixed line telephone or mobile phone.

• You can send files (including photos, documents or presentations of any size) and share your screen with others.

• Skype may also be used as a form of Instant Messenger with no sound or vision and just text.

• You can make audio calls using a simple headset with microphone and video calls using a webcam.

2. What does it cost?

It is Free to:

• Make basic audio computer to computer calls to other Skype users anywhere in the world (this includes both one to one and conference calls) because the ‘bandwidth’ used is paid for in the monthly fee that you pay to your internet service provider (ISP).

• Make one to one video calls to other Skype users.

• Send files and/or share your screen with one other Skype user.

You must Purchase credits or a subscription if you wish to:

• Make calls or send texts from your computer or mobile via Skype to mobile or landline telephones.

• Use Skype for group video conferences with 3 - 10 people - which can include sending files and screen sharing.

• You can buy Skype credits by signing in to the Skype website using your Skype username and password.

3. Installing the Skype client

Go to http://www.skype.com and click on Get Skype at the top of the page. If you are using a Windows desktop computer or laptop, click on Windows underneath Computer.

Click on Download Skype under Skype Free and you will be asked to save the SkypeSetup.exe file. Click on Save File (this will save the file to wherever you have chosen to do this on your computer. It may be your desktop, documents or a specific downloads folder). If you have a downloads window showing in your browser , double clicking on this file will begin your install. Alternatively, you can browse to the file on your computer and double click on it (or right click and choose open from the context menu, if you prefer) to begin the install process. Follow the setup wizard to complete the installation.

4. Starting Skype

Much more detailed support and information can be obtained on the Skype support website from which this tutorial was compiled.(https://support.skype.com)