Skype is a somewhat new and exciting software program that allows users to video chat, make conference calls with one another or call internationally at little or not cost. You can think of it as a video version of instant messenger. Calls from one Skype user to another are are free, but you can also make phone calls to landlines for a fairly low price.

Here is a guiding for downloading and using Skype.

First, download Skype from the company’s official website. Try not to download the program from anywhere else because it could contain a virus. Once you’ve got the program on the computer, simple follow the instructions to begin the installation process.

Choose your user name. When choosing your name don’t pick anything silly. Using your real name is the best way to go, especially if you want to use this for business or professional use.

Next, on the Skype window, go to the tab that says “contact” and click on the “add” button that’s located right under “contacts.” This is where you can search for contacts. All you have to do is enter their e-mail address or phone number. Then click “add Skype contact” if you want to save that person to you list of contacts.

If you want to start making phone calls simply click on a person’s name on your contact list and click the “call” button. It’s the green button that has the cute little telephone icon. Skype will automatically dial the phone number for you if it’s saved in their information. If you want to call a regular phone number of someone not registered on Skype, you can click the button that says purchase Skype credits.

Setting up Skype is free and so easy to use. It’s the perfect new way to do a video conference or phone call to another Skype user. Skype is definitely the program that many businesses will be using in 2011.