About Skype
Skype is a voice over IP (VoIP) program that allows you to make telephone calls over the Internet. The software is completely free, and so are the calls between computer users, no matter where in the world the users are. This service is very popular, and there are more than 300 million users worldwide
Function
Skype is a VoIP service that allows you to make telephone calls using your computer that uses a high speed Internet connection. The service is free to those calling other Skype users, even those from other countries. Skype also offers a low-cost SkypeOut service that allows Skype users to call landlines.
History
Skype was first launched in beta form in 2003 at the beginning of the high-speed Internet boom. Because the new system required a broadband connection, it did not undergo heavy testing before going live later that year. Skype quickly gained popularity as a free telephone alternative, and had a million users after only a year of operation. The service kept on growing, and was purchased by eBay in 2005. Soon after, support for streaming video conversations was included. Most recently, Skype has added extended landline support, released Linux- and Mac-compatible versions, as well as a PSP-compatible version.
Types
There are two different versions of Skype, the regular service that allows computer users to connect, and the SkypeOut service which allows users to make calls to landlines for a price. Those who opt in to the SkypeOut service can pay for landline calls by either signing up for a SkypeOut subscription membership, or by choosing a pay-as-you -go payment method.
Features
The current version of Skype has several features, including cross-platform support and video chat functionality. Skype also has several recording add-ons that can be used for amateur podcast production. Skype also has international support, and users can call anywhere in the world, with the exception of China, which has banned the service.
Warning
Because your Skype ID is viewable by anyone, you should only accept Skype calls from people you know. It is also important not to give out any personal or sensitive information over Skype, as the network (like most messaging and VoIP services) is not 100 percent secure.
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