What is Skype and how do I get it?

Skype is software made for communicating with other people no matter where you are. It’s owned by Microsoft and is on both mobile and desktop devices, from iPhone to Android, Windows, and Mac. It’s free to download and use, but by paying a few dollars you will be able to make phone calls as well or send SMS texts. Free users are able to send messages over the internet to other Skype users, make voice calls, video calls and group chats or calls. It’s been among the most successful chat apps out there and has made its mark in history.

Download Skype

To get Skype, it’s as easy as downloading and installing the application either from the Apple App Store, Windows App Store, Play Store, or from Skype’s website. Once you install it, you will be prompted to either log in or make a new account. The sign-up process varies from device to device, but they ask for the same information and are all very quick and easy to get through. You can also make an account from Skype’s own website.

Create a new account

First, you will need to either provide your email address or mobile phone number. This is for verification and login purposes. It can be changed later, but it will help get your account activated and will allow you to login. Choose either a phone number or email, or even both.

Your username is very important because it’s how other users will be able to add you as a contact. It must be unique, meaning different from everyone else’s username, and you should keep it simple so it’s easy for people to add you. Don’t worry, you’ll get to choose a display name later, so your username doesn’t have to be perfect. Keep in mind you can’t change it later, though.

For choosing a password, try to create something complex. At least ten character with a mix of symbols, numbers, and both lowercase and uppercase letters is a good rule of thumb, but you can mix it up.

Your display name can be whatever you’d like it to be. It’s what people will see you as unless they view your profile. This can be your name or an alias you go by on the internet. Choose whatever you’d like.

Now you’ll have additional options such as choosing an avatar, setting your status and more. Fill in whatever you’d like to and you’ll be on your way to setting up your account!

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