How to Call a Skype Name

Use your computer's webcam and microphone to place Skype calls.

Skype lets you place voice and video calls with your contacts. When you create an account for Skype, you select a Skype name that others can use to send you instant messages or call you. This setting is permanent because Skype does not let you change or delete your Skype name. To place a call to a contact, you'll need to add the person's Skype name to your contacts list and possibly wait for approval before you can start to place calls.

Instructions

1. Open Skype and sign in to your account. Click the "Contacts" menu and select "Add a Contact" if the contact you want to call is not yet in your contacts list. Type the contact's Skype name in the "Skype Name" field, and then click "Add." Type a message regarding your request if you want, and then click "Send Request" to notify the contact that you want to add him or her to your contacts. Depending on your contact's privacy settings, you may not be able to call your contact until he or she accepts your request.

2. Click the "Contacts" tab on the main Skype window. Right-click the contact you wish to call, and then click "Call" to begin an audio chat or "Video Call" to begin a video chat. Your contact must accept the request before the conversation begins.

3. Click the "Pause" button if you need to temporarily place the call on hold. Click the red "End Call" button near the bottom of the window to hang up after you finish the conversation.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use Skype's "Add a Contact" wizard to look up someone's Skype name. You can search using the person's full name, email address or telephone number.

References

• Skype: How Do I Call Someone on Skype 5.3 for Windows?