How Does Skype Technology Work?
Skype is software that enables users to make video and voice calls with other Skype users and non-users. It relies on voice-over-Internet protocol, VoIP, technology that establishes connections using the Internet. VoIP essentially broadcasts transcribed voice communication over data networks. Skype is easy to use once the software is downloaded to a computer. Skype can introduce users to a whole new method of communicating beyond the conventional telephone.
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Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
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VoIP is essentially the engine that allows Skype to run. It uses your Internet connection to place free calls with the aid of your computer. Simply put, VoIP transmits transcribed voice traffic over data networks. Calls can be placed to other VoIP users on a computer as well as to conventional land line telephone users.
P2P Telephony or Peer-to-Peer
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In addition to VoIP, Skype is also supported by P2P telephony otherwise known as peer-to-peer. It enables users to share, locate and download files. Peer-to-peer makes it possible for multiple nodes in a network to unite and participate in traffic routing, processing and other bandwidth intensive tasks -- tasks that a central server normally would perform. Initially, Skype was started to develop the first peer-to-peer network.
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Network Address Translation
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Network address translation allows multiple users -- those with firewalls and those without -- to communicate using Skype. Calls and instant messages are entirely encrypted to minimize security risk. Encryption also prevents the communication from being blocked by a user's firewall, which is designed to only allow access by authorized communications. Encryption is required for Skype to be safely supported on the public Internet highway.
Decentralized User Directory
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Skype decentralized the user directory for the purpose of establishing connections among end users, so that they can create a static user name and identity with a changeable IP number. The IP change happens when a user reconnects to a network using a different connection point. Since most centralized user directories track users with one IP and user name even when they're not online, the directories grow large over time as more users are added, becoming expensive to maintain. Skype minimized these costs when it decentralized the user directory.
Intelligent Routing
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Skype is able to route calls through the path of least resistance. In other words, when a call is placed, Skype uses whatever network path or multiple paths available on the network to make the call. This increases call quality and limits delay.
Download Skype Software
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Since Skype is software, it requires users to download it from the company's website. The download is free. The nice thing about the software is that it comes pre-programmed with a set-up wizard that walks users through the process. The download finds the computer's speakers and microphone, which are needed to make voice calls. To participate in video calls -- a free feature of Skype software -- users need to have a webcam on their computer. The download detects the webcam device automatically and coordinates the use of this feature.
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References
- Photo Credit computer image by michele goglio from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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Looks like a fantastic system. Here's hoping it works as good as it reads.
