Skype 3.5 lets you use your computer to make free phone calls to other Skype users anywhere in the world. In order to use Skype, you'll need a computer, a high-speed Internet connection, a good-quality headset or speakers and a noise-canceling microphone. If you're feeling flush, you can pony up for a special Skype telephone that plugs into your computer or home network.

Skype 3.5 incorporates many of the features that you would expect in an instant messaging system, including text-based chat. A handy contact list stores information about friends and family for quick access. To make a call, just select a name from the list and click the "Call" button. For free calls, recipients must have Skype installed, and their computer must be turned on, but this is a small inconvenience when you consider the cost (nothing). Skype uses encryption end-to-end, so conversations remain private.

Voice quality is largely dependent on the quality of your Internet connection, as well as current Internet traffic. Our testing suggests that voice quality is generally good, although not overly impressive.

Features include video calling (which requires a webcam); call transfer, which lets you transfer a call to another Skype user; file transfer; and conference calling. The individual who initiates a conference acts as the host, so if you plan to host conference calls, you will need a reliable high-speed Internet connection.

Skype 3.5 is easy to install and intuitive to use, and can greatly reduce the cost of calling far-flung friends and relatives. If you choose to take advantage of low-cost add-on options, you can use Skype to largely replace your landline phone. Skype's only real drawback, in fact, is that callers and recipients need to have their computers turned on at the right time in order to make a connection.


Pros: Easy to install and use, lets you make free computer-based phone calls to fellow Skype users anywhere in the world
Cons: Computer must be on in order to receive or place calls, making calls to or receiving calls from landlines and cell phones costs extra

Warranty
None