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How to make calls for free with Skype
If you've already got a computer with a broadband internet connection, Skype can help you talk to anyone, anywhere in the world, at no extra cost
Once, friends and family were never more than a street or two away. Now our nearest and dearest can be half way round the world. Keeping in touch is easy, but phone bills soon mount up. The internet provides a much cheaper alternative thanks to services like Skype. Here we'll show you how.
Step 1
Go to www.skype.co.uk and click on Download Skype. Read the next page, then click on Download Now and save the 20MB setup file.
Step 2
When the download is complete, double-click on the Setup file's icon and follow the onscreen instructions.
Step 3
When you first start Skype you'll be asked to set up an account. To read the terms and conditions, click on the blue text at the bottom of the window. When you're satisfied, click in the box to tick it and click on Next.
Step 4
For privacy, and better call quality, use a dedicated headset. Make sure this is plugged into the microphone or speaker socket on your computer. To check that your computer is ready to send and receive calls, click on the Start button at the bottom of the Getting Started dialogue box that opens when Skype first starts. Follow the onscreen instructions.
Step 5
If the person you're calling has Skype too, you'll be able to call their PC directly at no additional cost. First, add them to your Contacts list. Click on Add in the main Skype window and enter their Skype name, full name or email address.
Step 7
If your contact is online, click on their name and then on the green button with the icon of a telephone headset. Now all they have to do is answer your call.
Step 8
Alternatively, you can chat using typed messages. Click on a contact, and then on the blue Send Message button.
Step 9
Type in your message into the box at the bottom of the window that appears and press the grey button next to it. Messages and replies will appear in the top portion of the window.
Step 10
SkypeOut can be used to make calls to landlines, mobiles and to have Skype calls transferred when you're offline. You can even use it to send text messages. It isn't free, however it is inexpensive. Go to www.skype.co.uk and click on Call Phones. Sign in - this is your Skype username and password. Scroll down the page and select a country to see how much calls will cost. You can buy Skype Credit on the same page.
Step 11
To make calls to landlines or mobiles, return to Skype and click on the Call Phones tab. Select a country, and use the number pad to enter the phone number.
Written by Lynley Oram
The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated. The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.
