Skype

What is Skype?

Skype (www.skype.com) is a free application that facilitates free (or reduced cost) audio and video calls through the use of an Internet connection. Skype offers paid-for features such as voicemail and call forwarding.

How does it work?

To use Skype on your computer or Wi-Fi enabled phone, you require a free application which can be requested from ISS or your local computing officer.

Can I use Skype at the University?

ISS actively encourage the use of Skype. It is a cost effective and convenient form of communication which reduces the need for travel and in many cases removes the expense of telephone calls over the public telephone network. This in turn assists with the reduction of the University’s carbon footprint.

  • If you are a member of staff and would like Skype installed on the computer in your office, please make a request to your school Computing Officer or in the case of the Professional Support Services, through the ISS Service Desk (it.servicedesk@ncl.ac.uk or ex 5999).
  • Due to potential noise disruption, Skype is not normally available on ISS cluster room PCs. However, a number of Skype workstations are available in the Robinson Library.

Do ISS support Skype?

  • ISS can assist with the correct installation of Skype onto your computer. Users are encouraged to make use of the support and FAQs section on the Skype website (https://support.skype.com/en-gb/) for most troubleshooting assistance. However, ISS will employ our best endeavors to assist.
  • Because Skype uses the Internet to provide its service, the quality of the calls will vary depending upon Internet traffic and the connection speed or quality of each of the computers on the call. It is not possible to guarantee coverage. If you need guaranteed quality videoconferencing, this is supported in the University – please contact the ISS Service Desk on 5999.

Setting Up and Using Skype on the campus network

Downloading and using Skype on a Windows PC

  1. If you wish to install Skype on your University  computer, please place a request with your local computing officer or ISS as appropriate. They will ensure that it is installed correctly so that your computer does not become a "super-node" (routes telephone calls for others as well as your own calls).

Downloading and using Skype on a Mac

  1. Download the Mac OS version of Skype
  2. Double-click Skype in the downloads window of your browser
  3. On the pop-up window, drag the Skype icon across to your applications folder
  4. Eject the Skype volume by dragging its icon on your desktop to the trash section of the dock

You can then open Skype from the applications folder as with any other application.

Some important points to note

  • In order to use Skype you will need headphones or speakers and a microphone on your computer.
  • Skype can also be used with a webcam for one-on-one videoconferencing. Some laptops come with built-in webcams; external webcams can also be purchased for computers that do not have video capabilities built-in. See Skype's webcam page for more information and details.
  • Skype is free only for Skype-to-Skype calls. Calls to and from traditional phones (landline and mobile) are charged per minute by Skype.
  • In some instances Skype may turn your computer into a "super-node" - that is, it routes telephone calls for others as well as your own calls. This will affect the performance of your computer, and well as consuming network resources. ISS network monitoring will detect this, and your computer may be blocked from accessing the network.