Skype Problems: Garbled

You can resolve garbled call quality on Skype with software updates.

When you make a voice call on Skype, ideally the sound should be just as clear and crisp as when you use a regular phone. When you add video into the equation, the sound is ideally perfectly synced with the video. Sometimes, however, this isn't the case. Your audio may have excessive background noise or even an echo. In other cases, some words could be cut off and the sound quality could be poor, leading to a garbled call.

Internet Connection

A garbled or robotic-sounding call in which words get cut off is frequently due to a slow Internet connection. Stopping other programs from using your Internet connection may be all it takes to resolve this issue. Stop streaming any music or video. Close any other programs that are using the internet, if possible. Cancel any downloads, or wait until the downloads finish before attempting your Skype call. This is often enough to resolve your sound quality issues and lead to a trouble-free call.

Updates

If you don't believe the problem lies with your Internet connection, perform necessary software updates. Update Skype if you're not using the latest version. Install any service packs and updates from Windows, and update the drivers for your for your sound equipment, the files for which are usually found on the manufacturer's website. You may be prompted to restart your computer to complete these updates. Do so, and then attempt to place your Skype call again to see if the updates resolved the quality problems.

Firewall

Your firewall, if you have one, could cause call quality issues if you haven't set it up to work properly with Skype. Configure your firewall to allow Skype to access the Internet if you're having call problems. To do this in Windows Firewall, click the Windows orb and "Control Panel." Click "System and Security" and "Windows Firewall." Click the "Allow a program or feature through Windows Firewall" option, and then click "Change Settings." Find Skype in the list of programs displayed and ensure that the box to its left contains a check mark. If you're using a public network, the applicable box should also contain a check. Click these boxes if necessary, and then click "OK." Before you do this, however, close Skype completely. Sign back in when you're done and attempt to place your call again.

Check Settings

Click the "Check settings" button in Skype for a real-time glimpse of the status of your connection, computer, webcam, speaker and microphone. Click the "Connection" tab, and then click "Test now." This reveals the quality of your Internet connection. If it's slow or weak, plug in an Ethernet cable or move closer to the router. A slow or poor Internet connection can lead to various problems with your calls, including choppy, garbled sound.

References

• Skype: How Can I Improve My Audio Quality?
• Skype: There's a Problem With My Audio Quality
• Skype: How Do I Update My Firewall to Work With Skype?

Resources

• Skype: Support