Skype is another of the thousands of communication tool options available today. In a simple way, it can be said that it is a software for users to communicate quickly and easily. If you want to learn about the subject, in this post we will explain How does Skype work and how to make the most of all its tools?
While is true that allows you to make free calls and video calls with a large number of peopleIt also has plans tailored to different needs. Consequently, throughout this post you will know their costs.
By last, We will share a step-by-step guide on how the tool works and a list of the best alternatives to make free video calls. Continue reading!.
What are the main functions and features that I should know about Skype?
Skype, as with other communication platforms, has a large number of functionalities that facilitate and improve the experience of its users.
So that you have a general idea about it, we will share the most important ones that you should know:
Audio calls and HD video calls
One of the details most valued by people is the excellent picture and audio quality what offers Skype on your common calls and on video calls. This standard is maintained in both individual and group calls. Additionally, you can have reactions while chatting.
Smart messages
Through smart messages, you can instantly react to any type of message in a funny way or using @mentions to get the attention of another user. It is an entertaining alternative to enjoy Skype
Live call recording and captioning
If you want to capture special moments while a call is going on, this platform has the function of call recording. Also, it is worth noting that you can use live captions to read spoken conversations.
Calls to phones
Skype provides affordable international calls to both landlines and mobiles, so you can always keep in touch with your friends when they are not online.
Shared screen
You can easily share your photos, presentations or any other file from your screen in Skype, while on a call. All this is possible thanks to the screen sharing integration.
Private conversations
This is a feature highly valued by most, as it allows you to keep your confidential calls private with a standard end-to-end encryption of the sector.
How does Skype work and what can we do from this open source platform?
A very interesting aspect of Skype that maybe you did not know, is that works with P2P technology. This is the same one that other popular download platforms such as Ares or eMule. Through it, it is possible to achieve excellent sound quality and fluency. With regard to direct voice communications between users, this platform uses a Internet protocol of the voice over IP type, or also known as VoiceIP or Voip.
With it, voice signals are transformed into digital packets that are sent over the Internet. Another aspect worth knowing is that the app uses a proprietary protocol. Although users can use it for free, do not have the necessary permissions to modify the program. This occurs because its protocol and programming code are closed.
In the same vein, it should be mentioned that despite keeping a closed code, is a communication tool used by millions of users in the world. It is characterized by have a protocol that performs excellent signal understanding, without affecting the quality of the transmissions.
Thanks to its wide popularity, new versions have been developed adapted to users who use platforms other than Windows. Then, it is compatible with other operating systems such as macOS, Linux, Android and iOS. This resulted in the app being available for download on practically any electronic device. From smartphones, to tablets or computers, they can have Skype installed.
Skype plans and fees What are the different types of accounts I can have and how are they different?
Before talking about the Skype plans and fees, it is necessary to clarify what they are about. Specifically, the plans are monthly calling subscriptions with which people can make unlimited calls or calls with a fixed number of minutes to landlines.
It is worth mentioning that a plan is an excellent idea for those who need this service on a recurring basis. What’s more, each of them are automatically renewed and allow you to save, compared to the usual tariff prices. Having that point clear, Skype offers different prices and types of plans depending on the country you are in.
Below, find out what the costs of the most popular plans are according to the area you want to call:
- North America: 7.80 euros per month. You have unlimited minutes to call landlines and mobiles.
- World: 15.60 euros. Includes unlimited minutes to mobiles and landlines.
- U.S: 3.60 euros. Includes unlimited minutes for mobiles or landlines.
- United States and Canada: 4.80 euros. You have unlimited calls to landlines or mobiles.
Learn step by step how Skype works and take your first steps in this communication tool from Microsoft
Once you are clear everything about Skype and its operating mechanism, you probably want to get down to work and enjoy the platform.
Therefore, we decided to share with you a basic guide so that you can take your first steps in this tool:
Create Account
In case you don’t have a Microsoft Skype account, you should do the following:
- In the sample of Skype In the window, click the option Create new Skype account.
- Follow the directions on the platform for your account to be created.
Make a video call
- Locate the person the one you want to call on your list of Contacts:.
- Select contact to call.
- Press on the audio button (phone icon) or in the video button (camera icon).
- In case of want to make a group call, add another participant.
- Once the conversation is finished, press the button End call to hang.
Send files
- Sign into Skype.
- Press in the tab
- Select contact you will send the file to.
- Inside the chat window, tap on the icon Send file.
- Find the file on your hard drive and send it.
Make group call
- Go to the call list and click on the new call button or call an existing group.
- If it is a new call, select participants, maximum 100 (99 apart from yourself) you want to include.
- Click on the button To call.
Find and add contacts
- At the top of the window, click the magnifying glass icon. Choose people, groups & messages.
- Inside the Search field, enter the name, username or email of the contact you want to add.
- Choose that person in the search results and a chat window will open.
- Call the phone number you want to save.
- After the call, right click or press and hold the number from the chat list.
- Go to View profile.
- Tap on Add contact.
List of the best alternatives to Skype to make free video calls over the Internet that you should know
If don’t feel comfortable using Skype Or you just want to try other options, you should know that there are other platforms through which it is possible to make free video calls over the Internet.
Take into account the following:
Discord
This is an alternative that has positioned itself in recent times, especially within the gamer field. It’s free and offers a limit of up to 50 people at the same time in a video call. It also has features such as screen sharing for tutorials, limiting the number of times a user can type, adding bots, games, and much more. However, you should know that not so easy to use due to the wide number of benefits it offers.
Hangouts
One of the best options to make free video calls over the Internet is Google Hangouts. Despite not being very popular with users, is focused on the professional and personal sphere, so it is an excellent idea to organize meetings online.
One of the points in its favor is that it is multiplatform and free. With it, you can talk to up to 10 people. As additional information, you should know that it not only works as a video calling option, but you can also use it as an app to chat, share files, etc.
Google Duo
Apart from Hangouts, you can try with Google Duo. This is a messaging and video calling app, which means that it has the features you may require in the area. Works from any device, this means that it is compatible with many computers. Regarding the limit of participants, Google Duo allows you to contact up to eight people. So if you need to organize a group conference, you can do it without major problems.
Whatsapp
The classic instant messaging platform, WhatsApp, is an excellent option if you are looking to establish video calls with users for free. A great advantage of this is that practically everyone has Whatsapp installed on the mobile, so communicating through it will be very simple.
In its mobile version, you can organize video calls with other people. However, this option is not available in the desktop version. Therefore, it is recommended for more everyday aspects, rather than work.
Zoom
This is another of the great competitions of Skype, since it offers the possibility of executing video calls with up to 100 participants. So, if you have an important meeting with your entire work team or you just want to contact many people, Zoom it will be of great help to you. If you are inclined to contract its paid version, the functionalities are taken to another level, allowing you to include up to 1,000 participants at a time. Due, It is a platform much more focused on the workplace.