14 March 2020

Easier ways to setup and test Skype

Peter Deegan Microsoft Office, Office 2016, Office 2019, Office 365, Remote Life & Work Skype, Windows 10

We can say plenty about Skype, but it’s setup and testing is easier than most. Here’s how to get ready for Skype calling on Windows, Mac and others.

While Skype’s text messaging service is awful (clumsy and insecure with Microsoft reading every message!), it’s video and voice calling are good.

There’s also a live translation option which can be very handy though it’s a privacy concern.

Our ebook Beating Bots, Spies & Cock-ups – Safely & securely send files and documents explains that Skype messaging and file transfer is NOT safe and how to use it’s more secure mode. The book goes into detail about safe ways to collaborate or exchange files. Including limitations in some options, bypassing file size limits and sneaky nerd tricks for extra security.

Use Skype for free ‘computer to computer’ calls (video or voice) plus cheap calls to any standard phone line. Office 365 customers get 60 minutes per month of calls to many phone lines.

Setting up Skype can be frustrating, though a lot of that isn’t Skype’s fault. We’ve done a guide to Windows audio troubleshooting.

Troubleshooting Skype for Windows

Skype original developers understood the problems with fixing sound, in a way that Microsoft’s own teams don’t.

They put in simple ways to test your speaker, microphone and camera. You’ll be shown those options when you first start Skype and are available at any time from Settings | Audio & Video.

These options should work during a call which is very handy if there’s a problem. You’re trying to work out if the problem is with your microphone, their speaker or vice-versa.