How to Open Ports for Skype

Open the correct ports on your router to make sure Skype will operate properly.

Skype is a software communication application that enables users to make voice and video chat calls over the Internet. It also has an instant messenger service, file-transfer capability, and users can send text messages to mobile phones. "According to Skype, in order to function properly, the application needs unrestricted outgoing TCP connections to some TCP ports." To ensure you are getting the best possible experience from the Skype program, you will need to open the correct ports on your router.

Instructions

1. Launch the Skype program. Click "Tools" on the menu bar, followed by "Options" from the drop-down menu, and select "Connection" on the left side of the window.

2. Write down the port number for incoming connections displayed at the top of the window. It is usually a five-digit number, such as 53687. You will need this number to properly configure your router for Skype access.

3. Open your Web browser and type the IP address of your router in the address bar. An example of a commonly used IP address for many router brands is, "192.168.1.1." You can find your router's IP address either in the user manual or on a sticker on the bottom of the router. The login page for the router will appear.

4. Type in your user name and password. If you don't know the user name and password, you can find it in the user manual. A common default user name and password for many router brands is, admin and admin, respectively. Press the "Enter" key to login to your router's administration page.

5. Click the tab that contains the configuration settings for port forwarding on your router. They can be found under the "Port Forwarding," "Advanced Settings" or "Configuration" tab. Where the options are found will depend on the make and model of your router.

6. Type "Skype" in the open "Application" field. In the "Port Range" type the number you recorded in the Skype application's "Connections" window. Type the number twice if there is more than one port field. Select the "TCP" check box in the "Protocol" field.

7. Enter your computer's IP address in the "Server IP address" field. If you don't know your computer's IP address, click "Start" then "cmd" in the search bar to bring up the command prompt. Type "ipconfig" at the cursor and press the "Enter" key. The set of numbers next to "IP Address" is your computer's IP address. An example of what your IP address should look like is, "192.168.1.9." Close the command prompt window.

8. Click "Next" then "Close." Two new sets of fields will appear. Repeat the same information you used for the previous field in the two new fields, except change one of the "Port Range" fields to "443" and the other to "80." Click the "Save" button.

9. Restart the Skype application.

References

• Skype: Skype and Firewall
• ZeroPaid: Introduction to Port Forwarding
• Port Frowarding: Port Forwarding Skype on the Westell Versalink 327W