Frequently Asked Questions - Skype

Please contact us if you have any other questions. We are continuously updating our FAQ sections...

Questions:

    * Skype - What is Skype?
    * How do you pronounce Skype?
    * What are the benefits of Skype?
    * Are calls truly free using Skype?
    * How do you install Skype?
    * Does Skype work on a MAC?
    * Will Skype replace my regular phone line?
    * How popular is Skype?
    * How do I dial a "+" through Skype?

 

What is Skype?

Sparing you the technical and complicated peer-to-peer (Voice over Internet Protocol -- VoIP -- technology) explanation; simply put, Skype is free software that allow users to communicate with friends, family, and colleagues around the world -- in many cases for free!

How do you pronounce Skype?

Skype rhymes with ripe and pipe.

What are the benefits of Skype?

There are numerous benefits to using Skype, many which are explained throughout our Skype Knowledge Base. The biggest benefit of using Skype is the ability to process free phone calls to other Skype users throughout the world. International businesses are also enjoying the Skype's advance features, such as video conferencing, voice mail, and multiple user conference calls.

Also, international calls from SkypeOut accounts to normal phone lines are a fraction of normal long distance rates.

Are calls from Skype truly free?

Yes! All Skype to Skype calls are handled at no cost to either user. This is the biggest benefit of Skype and a reason why they have experienced such a significant growth in users. Using SkypeOut to call a regular phone line does incur a small fee.

How do I install Skype?

As mentioned earlier, Skype is an easy to install free software solution. Skype software can be downloaded at http://www.skype.com

However there are hardware solutions (USB Phones, Bluetooth Headsets, Skype VoIP Adapters) that will significantly enhanced your Skype Experience. If you are looking to "Skype" your entire house check our other guides.

Does Skype work on Macs?

Yes, and maybe. Skype software is available for Macs and is fully functional. Hardware solutions that rely on bluetooth technology (dongles and headsets) are also Mac-ready. However, we are continuously testing our USB Internet Phones and Adapters on Macs. . Many Yealink phones and adapters are now Mac ready...

Will Skype replace my regular line?

VoIP is an emerging technology and market. Since Skype does not offer 911 service and requires a broadband solution, we would hold off proclaiming it to be a replacement solution. However, Skype software and hardware provides a fantastic time and money saving complementary service solution. Keep checking back with us, as we are always looking for the newest VoIP solutions and how they can change our lives!

How popular is Skype?

At the end of March 2006, Skype reported over 75 million accounts. Skype's amazing growth rate will only continue as their service becomes more popular in the states. So purchase your Skype based solution today!

How do I dial a "+" in Skype?

Many people are using the phone products that AmperorDirect provides to talk over Skype, and use them to dial regular land-line phones. To do so, you have to dial a "+" first, then the number, in order to complete the call. The problem they run into is a decided lack of that plus symbol on the telephone key pad. Then they wonder: "How the heck do I dial a plus without using my computer keyboard? I don't want to use my computer when I have this cool phone."

Chill.  We have the answer, and you'll be surprised at how easy it is.

"00".  Yep.  That's it.  The first thing you dial is "00" (double-zero) and suddenly Skype changes its mind and shows a "+" instead of those two zeros.  After you see that, dial the phone number like you normally would and off you go.