Skype users: How is Skype's service working for you?

Question

What are the pros and cons?

Answer 1

Only a con

Skype's software and my Dell along with Vista would never install.

Answer 2

I've been using Skype since it's infancy over 3 years ago.  Back then it was free calling to USA/Canada landlines and cells.  Once they established a sizable subscriber base, they started charging money.  Now, USA/Canada calls are 2.1¢/min for calls to landlines.  Or unlimited calling for $2.95/month.  Not a bad deal.  Maybe not the cheapest around, but it has proven to be reliable.  The latest version 3.8 has very good voice quality.  And, of course all calls between Skype users are Free.  And, you can do conferencing and video calls too.

I keep Skype around as my trusty backup VoIP calling system.  But I also use others that are a little cheaper.  I believe it is always good to have two or three backup systems, because no service is always the best, or cheapest, or most reliable.  

New services pop up every week.  It never hurts to try new things; just leave yourself with a backup plan.

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People who can't get Skype to work usually have system installation, network, and configuration issues.

I run Skype on Windows XP and it has work without problems for years on XP.

For Vista users, I have heard that you need  to have software installed under Administrator account.

You have to be sure your AntiVirus software and Windows Firewall isn't blocking Skype's access to the Inernet.

http://www.skype.com/help/guides/firewal...

You can configure Skype to use ports 80 and 443, which usually reduces any problems with port blocking caused by some firewalls.  But, I don't use that option myself.  Skype will also allow you to customize the port it uses for incoming connections.  I always set mine to a port in the 49xxx port range.  Then, I set my NAT-Router to Port Forward, (or preferably, Port Trigger) on the specific 49xxx port I set my Skype to.  It works for me this way.... no problems.

http://support.skype.com/index.php?_a=kn...

Skype is used by over 10,000,000 people every day around the world.  If it didn't work, I can't immagine all those people would continue to use it.