Make online voice and video calls with Skype

If you want to make calls over the internet, Skype is easy to use and can make free calls between other Skype users. These can be text conversations, audio chat or video calls. It can also make calls to landlines and mobiles at reasonable rates, especially if you want to call abroad.

The Skype window is quite wide. Contacts are shown in the left-hand column and can be arranged into groups to help organise them. At the bottom is a button to make calls to ordinary numbers and mobiles. You will need to buy Skype credit or start a subscription to do this.

It is easy to use and detects the audio and webcam hardware in the computer. The best results are from using a headset or combined headphones and microphone. Skype can use different audio outputs for the ringing sound and the calls themselves, so you won't miss a call if you happen not to be wearing your headset.

There are several ways of making calls to ordinary numbers, for irregular users, the pay as you go option is best, buying credit as it is required. Call charges vary depending on the location you are calling but they are generally cheaper than the standard BT charges. Text messages can be sent through Skype as well.

Regular use is cheaper with a subscription. There are plans for UK-only calls, European countries and worldwide. Click here for full information on prices and subscriptions.

Skype can be used to chat with friends on Facebook, as long as the two accounts are linked. It asks for permission to access your basic information and profile information, send an email to the account linked to Facebook, post status messages, notes photos and videos to Facebook, access Facebook data when you are not online, read check-ins from you and your friends, and access your photos and videos.

The biggest limitation with Skype is not so much the software, but that there aren't many Skype phones around, so you will either need to use a computer or a smartphone that has a plan with a generous data allowance or wifi.

Remember that internet calling services such as Skype cannot be used for emergency calls.