Skype

Make free calls from your computer on Skype

Skype is a free and easy software that allows you to make phone calls to any other PC user in the world as well as enabling you to make cheap calls to landline phones.

For years I had been complaining about the extortianate telephone costs for both local and international calls but there was little that could be done about is as there was no alternative. Now there is and it is called Skype!

It is free to join and use with the only investment being for a microphone and headset, not even that as most people would probably have them anyway. Although Skype works with a modem connection, it works a lot better with a broadband connection.

After a quick download from Skype.com, you'll soon discover that Skype is very easy to install and use. You sign up with a username rather than a phone number. Instead of dialling a number, you can just click a username from your contact list to initiate a call. There's even a conference call function that lets you converse with up to four other people at once.

It felt very strange making the first few telephone calls to another PC user just by using the computer and mouse! I soon got used to it and now would not go back to using a landline as I find Skype very easy, convenient and above all, free!

Skype now comes with a video option so you can see the person you are talking too. This is probably my favourite feature.

If you need to call someone who does not have Skype on their computer, you can always buy a SkypeOut credit. You then make the call in the usual way on your computer only you are charged a few pence per minute for the call.

I use SkypeOut for all my International calls as majority of my relatives do not have a PC and live in quite remote places. I can now contact them frequently without it costing me very much and the call quality is as good as on any landline.

SkypeOut also allows you to make cheap calls to mobile phones. Skype Out has all but replaced my landline telephone business. I just find it so convenient and economical that is why I cannot praise Skype enough.

Review by Darryl Watkins