Skype has rapidly become one of the most popular applications in the internet. And why not?? Free pc to pc telephony is a good thing.

Activating Skype is quite simple - as simple as MSN Messenger.

Requirements:
1) A computer with audio output (Can you play music? If so you can hear Skype.)
2) A microphone (a $3 mike will do). Some folks like to use a headset with mike and headphone.
3) A high speed internet connection. I've had some success using it on a dialup connection as well although the sound quality isn't as good.

First download it from www.skype.com - it's free - it's not a large download. If you already have a copy that is some weeks/months old don't bother using it. They are constantly fixing it and improving it so you can always get the latest and greatest at their website. There are currently two versions - version 1.4 is the voice only classic version and 2.x beta is the new one with built-in video (you need a webcam for the video but it will still work fine if you don't have one and only want to use voice).

Make sure your microphone is plugged in to the computer.

After installing Skype, you run it. It will ask if you already have an account.
If not it will take you to the new account screen. No cost to register.

Then go to Tools/Add a Contact.

Add 'Echo123' to your contacts. This is the test site.

You will be returned to the buddy list.

Press the Green Telephone icon and it will call Echo123.

Echo123 will answer and deliver a message that asks you to record a message
after the beep. Record your message after the beep. It then plays back the message for you.
If you can hear it then you are properly configured.

Now add your Skype friends on Tools/Add a Contact. They must also have Skype on their computer. They will appear on your Contacts list.

That's it that's all. If they're online they'll show up on your Contacts list with a green arrow next to their name.

A couple of tips...

First thing you should do is go to the Tools/Options menu item and select the Privacy icon on the left. Change the setting to Only Accept Calls from my Contacts. This will ensure that everyone out there looking for someone to practice their English with doesn't immediately Skype you.

Don't EVER EVER select 'Skype Me' on the status list - doing so will put you into a directory listing of people willing to acept calls from anyone. Your skype-phone will start ringing within seconds of selecting this option. You can set your status by right clicking on the icon in yur task bar when Skype is running and picking your desired current displayed status from the list. Normally your status is managed by Skype unless you over ride the default.

If the person you want to call doesn't have a computer, Skype has a service called SkypeOut which for about two cents per minute lets you call from your computer to a telephone almost anywhere in the world (see rates posted at Skype).

You'll love Skype. The voice quality is almost as good as being in the same room.