How to Get Skype on Your Laptop

Laptop users can chat on Skype anywhere they have Internet access.

Laptop users with Skype accounts use the program to keep in touch with friends and family from anywhere they can access the Internet. Skype allows users to chat online for free and gives users the ability to call cellular and landline phones around the world for a low per-minute cost. Upgraded Skype accounts can even receive calls from cellular and landline phones. Before Skype can be used, however, it must be installed on the laptop it will be used from.

Things You'll Need

• Webcam (for video chat features)
• Headset or microphone (for voice chat and calling features)

Instructions

1. Navigate to the Skype website at Skype.com in your laptop's Internet browser. Move your mouse cursor over the "Get Skype" entry in the menu at the top of the page; then click the menu option for your operating system.

2. Click the "Download Skype" button to start downloading the installation program. You may be asked to create a Skype account at this time, providing your name, email address, preferred Skype name and preferred password to do so. When prompted whether you would like to "Run" or "Save," select "Run." If prompted as to whether you wish to allow the program to run, select the option to let it run.

3. Accept the Skype user agreement, and install the software. Launch Skype if it does not launch automatically upon successful installation.

4. Click the "Don't Have a Skype Name?" link on the sign-in page if you did not previously create a Skype name. Once you have a Skype name and password, log in to Skype.

5. Connect a Webcam to your laptop if you wish to use video chat features and your laptop model doesn't have a Webcam installed. Connect a microphone or headset if you wish to use voice chat or telephone services.

6. Open the "Skype" menu, and select the "Buy Skype Credit" option if you wish to add funds to your Skype account for text messaging or Skype-to-phone calling. You can use the currency and payment method of your choice to purchase Skype Credit $10 at a time.

Tips & Warnings

• Add existing contacts to Skype by using Skype's connection features for Windows Live, Yahoo!, Facebook and other networks. Skype will search your contact and friend lists for individuals with Skype accounts and add them to your Skype contact list automatically.

References

• Skype Support: How Do I Install Skype?
• Skype User Guides: How to Start Skype

Resources

• Skype: Downloads Page