On top of the free software and free Skype-to-Skype phone calls, Skype has the following benefits:
· Excellent sound quality. Unlike other VoIP software, Skype’s advanced technology results in fast and better sound quality. Old VoIP software packages made for slow, noisy, and inconvenient telephone conversations over the Internet.
· Convenience. Software is easy to install and understand. After downloading the free software, you click an installation tab and the software is installed quickly. There is no need to configure your server, laptop, computer, or dial-up connections.
· Call Anywhere. You can call from any computer with Skype. Just log on to your account and you can make Skype calls. You do not have to bring your computer with you anywhere you go.
· User-friendly. Skype’s user interface is easy to use. Once you click the Skype icon to make a phone call, a window that is easy to understand appears on your screen, giving you instructions that are easy to follow.
· Security of Calls. Skype uses end-to-end encryption for your call before it hits the Internet. Decrypting is done when it reaches the other computer. Calls cannot be intercepted and decrypted by other computers, even if they have Skype. Only the computer where you sent the call can decrypt it. The security of Skype-to-mobile and landline telephones and vice versa depends on the security of the network used for the call.
· Conference Calls. You can talk with up to four other persons, whether they have Skype accounts or not. You can add callers from your contact list or ask others to join in on the conversation.
· Multi-tasking. You can send instant messages, chat, transfer or share files while talking over the Internet. You can carry on a conversation with as many people as you can handle.
· High Call Completion Rates. Skype can go around firewalls and gateways that render over 50% of home computers poor at communicating with traditional VoIP software.
· Caller Identification. You can know who is calling you and choose to answer the call or not.
· Privacy. You can specify who can call you (Authorized Users) and who cannot (Blocked Users). You can hide your personal information from other Skype users.
· Multiple languages. Skype comes in many languages, allowing even non-English speakers to use it.
· Cheaper rates for calls. Calls to and from non-Skype account holders are not free, but have lower rates than calls using telephone companies.