Skype is a communication app that combines video calling, voice calling, instant messaging and file sharing in one program. Originally developed independently before being acquired by Microsoft, it became one of the earliest widely used consumer video-calling tools and has clients for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS. Users sign in with a Microsoft account to make calls or send messages to individual contacts or groups.
What Skype Is Used For
Skype is built around one-to-one and group communication rather than large-team collaboration, covering video calls, voice calls and text chat from the same contact list. It also supports screen sharing during a call, which is useful for tech support, remote walkthroughs or presenting a document to someone on the other end.
Skype Features
- Video calling — one-to-one and group video calls from desktop or mobile
- Voice calling — audio-only calls over an internet connection, including calls to landlines and mobiles with Skype Credit
- Instant messaging — text chat with individuals or groups, including emoji and file attachments
- Screen sharing — share your screen with another participant during a call
- File and photo sharing — send files and images directly within a chat
- Cross-platform sync — conversations and calls stay in sync across Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS
- Call recording — record a call for later reference, with participants notified
How to Install Skype on Windows
- Download the installer from the official download page or the button on this page.
- Run the setup file and follow the installation prompts.
- Sign in with a Microsoft account, or create one if you do not have one.
- Set up your microphone and camera in the audio and video settings.
- Add contacts by username or email to start chatting or calling.
Is Skype really free?
Free. Skype is free to download and use for calls and messaging between Skype users; calling landlines and mobile numbers requires paid Skype Credit or a subscription.
How to download Skype safely
Use the request button on this page and we will email you the current link for www.skype.com — the publisher's own website — so you receive the authentic build. We do not host, mirror, patch or repackage this software in any way.
Avoid third-party "download manager" sites offering Skype. They commonly wrap the genuine installer in their own bundler, which is how adware and browser hijackers get onto a machine that the user believed was clean.
Alternatives to Skype
Other free communication software worth comparing before you decide:
Slack
Team communication platform with channels, messaging and calls.
Zoom
Video conferencing software with free-tier meeting limits.
Discord
Free voice, video and text chat app built around communities.
Frequently asked questions
Is Skype free to use?
Yes, calls and messages between Skype users are free; calling regular phone numbers requires paid Skype Credit or a subscription plan.
Do I need a Microsoft account to use Skype?
Yes, signing in to Skype requires a Microsoft account.
Can I use Skype on my phone and computer at the same time?
Yes, Skype syncs conversations and supports being signed in on multiple devices at once.
Does Skype support group video calls?
Yes, Skype supports group video and voice calls in addition to one-to-one calls.
What is the difference between Skype and Microsoft Teams?
Teams is Microsoft's workplace collaboration platform aimed at teams and organizations, while Skype is built around personal and small-group calling and messaging.
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People also search for
The terms visitors use to find this page. Each one lands here because it describes the same program.
Searches from India
Skype is identical worldwide — these are search phrasings, not different downloads. Every one of them gets the same official build from www.skype.com.
