How to Disable the Skype VOIP Supernode Mode

Skype might slow your Internet connection.

Skype is a VOIP and chat software that is used by millions of users around the world. As part of its network architecture, Skype uses clients' machines to relay communication for other Skype clients (for instance, for clients behind firewalls). These relay machines are called Supernodes and usually they are chosen by Skype (unbeknown to users) because they have fast Internet connections and public IP addresses. In some cases, Supernode mode causes a major decrease in Internet and system performance, resulting in a major slowdown in the Internet connection.

It is possible to disable the Skype Supernode mode in your Windows machine.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Open the "Notepad" text editor by clicking the Windows "Start" button, clicking "Programs," clicking "Accessories," and then clicking "Notepad."

2. Copy the following four rows of text and paste them into "Notepad." Highlight these rows using your mouse, copy them using the "Ctrl+C" keys and paste them into "Notepad" using the "Ctrl+V" keys.

   Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

   [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Skype]

   [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Skype\Phone]

   "DisableSupernode"=dword:00000001

3. In the "Notepad" menu bar, click on "File" and select "Save". Once the "Save As" dialog is opened, select the "Desktop" in the "Save in" box, write "DisableSkypeSupernode.reg" in the "File Name" box and choose "All Files" in the "Save as type" box. Click on the "Save" button.

4. Minimize all opened windows, locate the file "DisableSkypeSupernode" on your desktop and double-click with your mouse on its icon. Once you get a message box that is asking you if you are sure that you want to add the information in DisableSkypeSupernode.reg to the registry, click the "Yes" button.

5. Confirm the registry update. Click on the "OK" button and restart your machine. From then on, your Skype software will no longer act as a Supernode.

Tips & Warnings

• Applying the suggested fix involves modifying the Windows registry, so please use caution.

References

• PerfProtector blog: There is a bandwidth hogger in my computer
• Skype official forum: Skype is a bandwidth hog