Here are certain Skype problems most commonly faced by users. If you are stuck in any of these Skype issues, here are some fixes.

Skype install problem: It is always recommended to install the latest version of Skype and that too from the official Skype website. Do not install Skype from any third-party website. If you are facing problems in downloading the Skype installation file, try using a different browser or ensure that your browser allows pop-up windows to download Skype. You can even add the URL of Skype’s official website to the pop-up blocker exceptions list.

If downloading Skype is taking more time than anticipated then close applications such as music playing or video streaming that might be using the Internet bandwidth. In case of wireless connection, ensure that the signal quality is good. If there is a security software such as firewall or antivirus software running on your computer, temporarily disable it. Once the download is complete, you can re-enable it. Then try downloading the Skype installation file again.

Still unable to download Skype? Try downloading Skype on another computer and transfer the Skype install file to your computer. Once Skype installation file is downloaded, run it and follow the on-screen instructions.

Skype login problem: If you are facing issues while login into your Skype for Windows account, there can be different reasons for that. First of all make sure that you are using the correct username and password. If you have forgotten your username or password, it can be recovered by clicking on the recover username or password button that is on the bottom of login window. Sometimes your computer may detect that you are already logged in to your Skype account when you are not. To fix this, make sure that Skype is no longer running, restart Skype, and then try to login again. If you are using firewall on your computer, make sure that the firewall is configured to allow Skype to access the network.

Skype audio or sound problem: Your Skype is connected properly, but still you might experience some issues related to audio or sound. The issues related to audio or sound in Skype can be any of these – you are not able to hear the other person, or the person on the other side is unable to listen to you properly, or the quality of sound is not good. If the other person is unable to listen to you, make sure that the microphone is connected properly and turned on. If still the person on other side is unable to listen you properly, go to ‘Tools’ in the menu bar, and click ‘Options’ and then ‘Audio Settings’. Look for the volume indicator and speak into the microphone. If it lights up and moves when you speak, your microphone is working properly. If the indicator doesn’t light up, make sure that the device you are using as your microphone is selected in the dropdown list. If it’s not, click the down arrow and select another device. Speak into the microphone again and see if it lights up. If it does, the microphone is working fine.

Skype video problem: If you are using your Skype connection for video conferencing or video chat, you might face video related issues such as poor quality of video images or unable to see video from your webcam. In such a scenario, it is recommended to first check that the webcam is properly connected. To check this login to your Skype account, and go to ‘Tools’ in the menu bar, and then click ‘Options’. Under ‘General’, select ‘Video Settings’. If you have a webcam connected, you would be able to see a live picture from it. If you can see the live picture, your webcam is working correctly. If the quality of video images is not up to the mark, it may be due to a low cost webcam that you are using. A good webcam that is compatible and guaranteed to work seamlessly with Skype can help you overcome the poor quality issue.

DIY – Check which version of Skype are you using

If you are not sure which version of Skype you are using, here are some simple steps following which you can check the version of Skype that is installed on your computer. It is highly recommended to use the latest version of Skype for a hassle-free distant communication. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Sign in to your Skype account.

Step 2: In the menu bar, click ‘Help’, and then ‘About Skype’ (Skype for Windows). In case of Mac, after clicking on ‘Help’ in the menu bar, click on ‘Skype’ and then on ‘About Skype’.

Following the above given steps will help you know which version of Skype you are using. For the best performance and enjoy the latest Skype features, it is always recommended to you use the latest version of Skype.