5 Easy Steps to Start Using Skype
by Wayne Baumgartner
April 6, 2009

1) Download: You need to download the Skype software.  Visit www.skype.com and click on the button labeled "Download Skype".

2) Run & Install: Once you have the application, you will be prompted to click "Run" and then "Install".  This step will install the application onto your computer and create an icon on your desktop to easily start Skype in the future.  After the install you will be prompted to select your language and clicking the button that you agree to the terms.  The next prompt will be if you want to install Google Chrome as a browser.  Keep things simple at this point and uncheck the box for Chrome.  You can always download it later once Skype is up and running.  Depending on your computer you may be prompted that a restart will be required.

3) Personal Profile: The first time you start Skype, you will need to enter a user name and password.  This user name will be the name you share with friends and family so they can connect to you.  Once entered, you will be sent to the main login screen.  Enter your newly created username and password and you will be taken to the main screen.  Congratulations...you're in!

4) Headset Configuration:  The next step is to configure your headset and make a free test call.  On the top menu, click on "Call" and then select "Audio Settings".  Next to the microphone and speakers you should see the model of your headset.  If these are not correct, click the drop down arrow and make the appropriate selection.  It's time to see Skype in action.  Below the microphone settings you will see "Make a free test call".  Click the link and you will hear a voice with a welcome message and instructions to leave a message that will be replayed back to you.  If you hear your own voice, Skype has been configured correctly and you're ready for your first call.  If not, return back to configuring your microphone and speakers until correctly working.  This is also the screen to configure your video camera if you have one.  On the left menu, click on video settings.  If your camera is plugged in you should see yourself.

5) Make call:  In the upper left corner of the main screen you will see a "New" button.  Click and select "New Contact".  This is where you enter your friends or family username.  Once entered you will return back to the main screen.  On the left side of the screen, under contacts, you should now see the username you just entered.  Click on it once and then just to the right click the green "Call" button.  You will hear tones that the call is being made.  Once they click to answer a call on their end, you will start your conversation....for free!  You can click to start video to take advantage of what Skype and VoIP are truly about.....talking and viewing a live person.  When finished, you click the "End Call" and conclude your first call.  There are other bells and whistles you can learn about and configure your person settings as you have time.  Hopefully this gets you started with Skype and saving money on your long distance.  From here it's easy to fund an account and start calling land lines just like you would normally call on your house phone...for only $2.95 per month.  Thanks for taking the time to read this and please email us about your experiences with Skype!

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