Skype

I’d like to have free phone conversations through my computer. I’m thinking about Skype.
For business or home?
Maybe both.
Well, it’s pretty good for home, but less so for business. Still, as a ‘Voice Over Internet Protocol’
(VOIP) software, Skype has some good features.
Sounds promising. But is it reliable?
Mostly, but first you should know that…
Hello? Hello? Anybody there?

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I’d like to try Skype. How do I get it?
Easy. You and the other ‘caller’ must download the software from the Skype
website (www.skype.com), and you can speak to each other whenever you are both online.
It’s very simple, and it’s similar to MSN, Microsoft’s live voice Messenger service.
Great. How long does it take to set up?
Just a minute.
…what? Oh, I get it. And the sound quality?
Pretty good, normally. But occasionally it will…
Hello…? Cut out? Why is that?
Because your internet connection may break up. And because it is set up to use any spare
bandwidth, which may become overcrowded.
Hmm. Anything else?
You need a microphone or USB phone, or you’ll get feedback. But it’s useful. You can also
send documents through it and type live chat too.
So… would you recommend it?
Yes, it’s great for a one-to-one, ideal from home, or travelling, but…
What about a phone number?
You don’t need one, as you are calling a computer, but there are now services where you can
cheaply rent a number. You can answer on your computer, or it can take voicemail.
Handy. So what’s the catch?
Well, it’s really not suitable for business. Of course, you can’t transfer calls either - and using
Skype in the office often slows down the broadband network
You mean I can’t put all the staff on it, and save telephone costs?
Sadly not a great idea. Firstly, security can be a problem, as the software bypasses firewalls.
There’s also the possible fading out when you’re on a business call, and there’s no chance
of conference calling, as it’s strictly peer-to-peer. Of course you can’t transfer calls either.
But there are better forms of VOIP available for business.
I’ll just use it on my laptop, then. I’m downloading the software now. Any last advice?
Always check the terms of the software before you download it.
Ah, right.

Internet telephony is a fast-moving field of increasing importance for business. You need to
know what’s the right option for you now… and how this field is likely to develop in the next
few years. At Psychosis we put our efforts into knowing the state of the art, so all you have to
do is talk to us – we’ll be happy to brief you on the options.

Also in this issue: What Broadband? and Junk Mail