Skype Hacks

Chapter 3. Configure Skype

Hacks 25–42: Introduction

Skype has gone to great efforts to make installing and configuring its software as easy and problem free as possible. Sadly, it isn’t there yet. And, one could argue, these procedures can never be truly problem free given the sheer variety of computer hardware already out there and the rapid pace at which new hardware is introduced. Similarly, software in the form of sound device drivers, Skype add-ons, and operating system services are so intertwined with Skype that a problem for one of those almost inevitably is a problem for Skype.

Some end-user configuration will almost certainly be needed. However, configuration really falls into two distinct categories. The first is configuration to get Skype to simply work, and this chapter helps a little in that respect. The second is configuration to get Skype to work the way you want; that is, improving performance and customization. The focus of this chapter is most distinctly on the second category—a focus that is further maintained and expanded in Chapter 4. For the first category—getting Skype installed and up and running—refer to Skype’s own troubleshooting and other resources at http://www.skype.com/, though “Troubleshoot Skype” [Hack #12] may be of some help, too.

An often-overlooked simple prerequisite to using any software is to check that your hardware and operating system meet the minimum requirements. This simple step is too often brushed aside in the headlong rush to get ...