Skype — Internet calling, video chat, and messaging service

How Skype works

At its core Skype uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to digitize voice and route calls over data networks instead of traditional telephone lines. Calls between Skype users are typically free, while calls to landlines and mobile phones generally require prepaid credit or a subscription. The service also supports video streams, group calls, instant text chat, presence (online/offline status), screen sharing, and file transfer. A Skype account is identified by a username or an email address tied to the account.

Platforms and editions

Skype is available as a desktop client for major operating systems and as apps for mobile platforms. Commonly supported systems include Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android. There have been specialized versions and integrations for business customers, and Microsoft previously offered a separate product Skype for Business which merged enterprise-oriented capabilities with corporate directory and conferencing features; many of those capabilities were later consolidated into other Microsoft collaboration products.

Features and typical uses

• Voice and video calling: One-to-one and group calls with optional video.
• Messaging and presence: Instant chat, emojis, and status indicators.
• Calling phones: Ability to call ordinary phone numbers using paid credit or plans.
• Screen sharing and collaboration: Share a screen during a call for presentations or troubleshooting.
• Voicemail and call management: Incoming call forwarding, voicemail, and caller ID features.

History and ownership

Skype was created in the early 2000s and gained rapid popularity for internet telephony. It has changed ownership several times: it was acquired by a major online company in the mid-2000s and later purchased by Microsoft, which has integrated Skype technology with other communication and productivity services. Over time the software architecture and business model evolved from peer-to-peer roots toward cloud-hosted services and subscriptions.

Privacy, security and notable points

Skype has introduced security features and options over its history, including encrypted sessions for private conversations. Like many communications platforms, Skype has been the subject of privacy and security discussions about metadata, storage, and how calls are routed. Users consider trade-offs among convenience, cost, and privacy when selecting any internet calling service.

Skype remains widely used for personal and small business communications, international calling, remote collaboration, and informal video meetings. It is one of several established applications in a competitive field that includes other internet calling and conferencing tools.

Further reading and links

• General overview
• VoIP technology
• Telephone and PSTN calling
• Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) details
• Founders and background
• Early contributors
• Company registration
• Microsoft integration
• Previous ownership history
• Windows client
• macOS client
• Linux support
• Mobile apps
• iOS app
• Android app
• Pricing and calling credit
• Account identification and usernames
• Group conversations and meetings
• Emojis and chat features