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Skype, Free Telephony Service

Skype is a leading communication product on the Internet because of its easy setup, numerous features, and reasonable prices. The uses for this product are numerous for both personal and professional use.

I've heard of Skype before but never tried it until my step daughter started using it. In fact, just the other day, on the Oprah Winfrey Show, Oprah spoke with Tom Cruise via Skype and now I know why. It's impressive.

Personal Use

I downloaded Skype to my computer to communicate with my stepdaughter and after only 10 minutes, I felt like a pro as I used the easy interface to create a profile, find my stepdaughter, and begin communicating with her via videoconferencing!

The videoconferencing feature is good for a couple reasons. One is that you can continue to work while running Skype in the background. I was able to keep working on my computer while her and I chatted and I never missed a beat. You can also maximize the image and it takes over the entire screen for a better view. I thought this would be great for families that are apart to communicate.

My stepdaughter and her friends use their laptops like a telephone now! We live out of town so weekends are usually spent quietly at home and we always wished she could have more interaction. Since she found Skype, she can talk to her friends while playing an online game, listening to a video or surfing the net. It's almost like she is here. She has even given her friend a virtual tour of our house and introduced us to her!In fact, my stepdaughter contacted one of her friends and her father and I both said we should have her friend "virtually" to dinner.

Instant messaging is also a free communication tool for Skype to Skype contact. And again the interface is easy. I like the option to save these conversations if you want. Also, the Directory is handy to find family and friends or new friends. I used this feature and it is unobtrusive, unlike some IM's.

Some features cost a minimal amount. Calls to regular landline phones and texting are two of these. The prices seem reasonable to me at .21/minute in October 09. You get one free phone call when you sign up so I tried mine. It was amazingly clear. It took some getting used to because I am used to holding my telephone, not my computer screen, but it worked great! I could hear my friend loud and clear.

Professional Use

Skype is one stop shopping for phone calls, videos, conferencing, Skype Voicemail, IM & SMS, and even Admin tools at a very low price. Videoconferencing and chat are free to anyone who has Skype. And with screen sharing options, can you imagine the collaboration a team can have?

The best part about Skype is no more busy signals. With the easy to use interface, you can easily see who is available on your contact list. Or if you are stepping out, you can type a note saying you are out. What a time saver not having to pick up the phone and call someone!

Another great feature about Skype is its mobility. You can use it with your phone, computer, or cell phone. What an important tool to take on a business trip.

Some features professionals will find handy are the mute and hold buttons, easy to manage contact lists, and the ability to talk with anyone, anywhere at reasonable prices. Skype has a variety of options, including Pay as You Go or Monthly Plans for Business Skype. But keep in mind, much of the services are free for Skype to Skype communication.

Overall, I like Skype a lot and would recommend it to anyone. It's easy to use, fun, and FREE, for the most part. The only downer to this VoIP is that you can't use it for emergency phone numbers. Other than that, I couldn't find anything about it that I didn't like.

Categorized: Reviews

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