Are you having some trouble with popular VoIP program Skype but you have no idea how to fix it? If you're not entirely tech savvy, you may be struggling and tempted to give up on it before you've even begun. Don't worry! Here are solutions to five common problems. These are all easy solutions that anyone can understand and implement.

1. Bad Call Quality

The most common cause of poor call quality on Skype is when two users are running different versions of the program. The codecs will not be compatible which leads to echoing, lost voice packets, and general difficulty. It's easy to fix this; each of you needs to update your own program. Just navigate to the main website and download the newest version. Alternatively, you could click on "Help" and "Check for Updates" in the Skype menu. If that option greys out, there are no updates. If there are, the program will guide you through installation of them.

After installation, check to see if the situation has improved. Skype is regularly improving on its codecs and you should always update for the latest one.

2. Call Quality Fluctuates Even After Updates

Check your internet quality. Are you doing something else online, like downloading or uploading a large file? Do you have a very low speed connection to the internet? These issues can combine to lower your call quality. Unfortunately if your internet speed fluctuates, there's nothing you can do, but you can try not to download or upload files while you are chatting on Skype. This includes browsing large websites that may have excessive use of flash.

3. Webcam Picture Is Blurry

If your webcam looks dark, check that it's securely connected to your computer and installed properly. Try opening it in its native program (after closing Skype) and troubleshooting from there first because that program may recognize more issues than Skype will. Turn more lights on so that the lighting is more central. Very few webcams will provide good quality video in a video call, but you can improve it with even, bright lighting.

4. Webcam Isn't Working at All

First, check that Skype is recognizing your video. Go to Tools, Options, and then choose Video Settings under "General". You should see an image of yourself. If you don't, first check that no other program is using your video. You won't be able to do both. If it still doesn't work, again ensure that your version of Skype is fully updated. Update your webcam drivers by going to your manufacturer's website and downloading new ones for your model. Sometimes older webcams struggle with Skype.

5. How Do I Block Someone?

Just like any instant messaging type service, Skype unfortunately has its fair share of spammers. If you receive inappropriate message or invitations to video calls, you naturally want to take the next step and block those users from accessing you again. Blocking is easy. Just right-click on the person's name from the instant message or the call and choose "block this person" from the menu.

If you're having a lot of problems or you simply don't want others to view when you're on Skype, you can also go invisible. This will mean that only you can initiate calls and instant messaging conversations because everyone else will see you as logged out. In order to do this, click on Skype at the top, then hover over online status. Invisible should be one of the options.

The Skype website is a fantastic place to investigate if you have more tech knowledge or are having a different problem. I hope these tips helped!

Meghan Burton is a professional copywriter. She recommends Octavia IT Services for business VoIP phone systems.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Meghan_Burton