Skype is Microsoft’s free messaging, voice, and video calling service available on web, desktop, and mobile.
You can use Skype in your browser via Skype for Web—no full app install required.
It supports one‑to‑one and group chats, HD video calls, screen sharing, file sharing, and SMS (with Skype Credit).
Calls between Skype users are free; calling mobiles/landlines requires credit or a subscription.
Skype encrypts data in transit and offers additional privacy controls; review settings to match your needs.
What is “Skype Messenger” in plain terms?
Skype is a communication platform from Microsoft that lets you send instant messages, make voice and video calls, share your screen, and transfer files with people around the world. You can use it as a native app or directly in a browser through Skype for Web—think of it as “Skype messenger online,” designed for quick access without installing software. See the official overview for features and downloads on the Skype site and web app: Skype and Skype for Web.
How Skype works
Accounts and sign-in: You use a Microsoft account (or create one quickly) to sign in. Your contacts are identified by their Skype Name or Microsoft email/phone. Help and setup guidance are in the Skype Help Center.
Platforms: Skype runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and modern browsers via Skype for Web. The web version is ideal when you’re on a shared or managed computer.
Messaging: Real-time text chat supports reactions, @mentions, file and media sharing, and message search. Chats sync across devices, so you can start on your phone and continue on a laptop.
Voice and video calls: One‑to‑one and group calls are free between Skype users. Quality adapts to your connection. You can blur your background or use backgrounds during video calls.
Screen sharing and collaboration: Share your screen to demo, troubleshoot, or co‑review documents—helpful for remote troubleshooting or quick walkthroughs.
Skype-to-Phone: If you need to reach someone who isn’t on Skype, you can call mobiles and landlines at low per‑minute rates using Skype Credit or monthly subscriptions. Details are on the Skype site.
Notifications and presence: See who’s online and control alerts to avoid distractions. Status indicators (Active, Away, Do not disturb) help set expectations.
For a quick primer on the product’s history and scope, the Skype Wikipedia page offers helpful context.
Using Skype in your browser (“Skype for Web”)
Skype for Web lets you use Skype via a supported browser, no full install needed:
- Go to web.skype.com.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Grant microphone and camera permissions when prompted for calls.
- Start chatting or calling—your contacts and conversations sync automatically.
Notes:
- A stable connection, up-to-date browser, and enabled media permissions provide the best call quality.
- Some advanced features may vary slightly by browser and OS; check feature availability in the Help Center.
Key features at a glance
- Free text, voice, and video between Skype users
- Group video calls and group chats
- Screen sharing and file sharing
- Background blur/backgrounds for video calls
- Skype-to-Phone calling with credit or subscriptions
- Voicemail and call forwarding (optional)
- SMS sending (with Skype Credit)
- Multi-device sync across web, desktop, and mobile
Explore the feature set on the official Skype website.
Pricing: what’s free, what’s paid
- Free: Messaging, file sharing, and Skype-to-Skype voice/video calls.
- Paid: Calling mobiles/landlines, SMS, and certain add-ons. You can top up with Skype Credit for pay‑as‑you‑go rates or choose monthly calling subscriptions for specific countries/regions. See current options on Skype.
Tip: If you call regularly to the same country, a subscription often costs less than pay‑as‑you‑go.
Privacy and security basics
- Encryption: Skype encrypts communications in transit. You can control who can contact you and adjust data and privacy settings in the app.
- Private info: Review your profile visibility and contact permissions.
- Microsoft privacy: For how data is handled, see the Microsoft Privacy Statement.
As with any communication app, keep your app updated, use strong authentication, and be cautious with unsolicited contact requests.
Getting started in minutes
- Create or sign in with a Microsoft account.
- If on desktop/mobile, install Skype from the official site; otherwise open Skype for Web.
- Add contacts by Skype Name, email, or phone.
- Test audio/video settings and grant permissions.
- Start a chat or make a voice/video call. Try screen sharing during your next call.
Pro tip: Pin your most-used chats, set a custom status, and tweak notification settings to fit your work or personal rhythm.
Bottom line
Skype remains a reliable, globally available messenger and calling service you can use anywhere—app or browser. For most people, Skype-to-Skype communication is free, easy, and fast. If you need to reach phones, add Skype Credit or a subscription. Start with the web app for quick access, and install the desktop or mobile app if you want tighter OS integration and persistent notifications.
