How to Download Skype for Mac

Skype is a software package that many individuals and business use to make telephone calls over the Internet. The software is available for both the Mac and PC and is very easy to download and install. As long as your Mac has Internet access, you should be able to download Skype. The faster your connection speed, the quicker the process will be. If you're using an networked computer, ask the administrator if there are any firewalls that could block the download before you get started.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Direct your Internet browser to go to Skype's website (see Resources). Click on the download tab.

2. Scroll through the menu on the right side of the screen until you see the Skype versions available for the Mac. Click on the one you'd like to use. Note that Skype is not compatible with OS versions prior to OSX v10.3.9. If you have an earlier operating system, you will have to upgrade before you can install the software.

3. Click on the download button on the install page. Choose "Save File." Close any old versions of Skype you have open on your machine by choosing the "Quit" option from their file menus.

4. Open your Web browser again, if needed, and go to the Tools menu. Pick "Downloads" from the dropdown. Double click on the Skype .exe file. It will say "Skype" at the beginning of the file name or will appear as a blue icon, depending on your browser settings. Click "Continue" when a dialog box pops up to begin the setup wizard.

5. Follow the prompts in the wizard, which generally consist of just clicking "OK." If you have older Skype software on your machine, you'll be asked if you want to replace it. Say "Yes.

6. Click on the Skype icon that will now be on your desktop. It will look like a blue cloud with an S in the middle. Drag it to into your applications folder. Highlight the installer icon, which looks like a disk, and click the eject button next to it. Now you're ready to create your Skype account.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're having trouble downloading Skype, it's often because you're not using the right version for your machine. Make sure it is compatible with your operating system. Although downloading the software and making Skype-to-Skype calls are free, Skype charges for some of its services.

Resources

• Skype's website