Skype Not Working? 10 Quick Fixes
Quick Fix
Skype not working? Check your internet connection first – Skype needs stable internet for calls. Sign out and sign back in to refresh your session. If calls aren’t connecting, check Windows audio settings to ensure correct microphone and speaker are selected. Update Skype to the latest version.
Why Won’t Skype Work?
Skype issues come from internet connectivity problems, outdated app versions, audio/video device settings, firewall blocking, or server outages. Both caller and receiver need working Skype and internet for calls.
Method 1: Check Internet Connection
Skype needs stable internet.
- Test connection at speedtest.net
- Skype calls need 1+ Mbps for video
- Restart router if speed is slow
- Try switching between WiFi and ethernet
- Close bandwidth-heavy apps
Method 2: Sign Out and Back In
Refresh your Skype session.
- Click your profile picture
- Select Sign out
- Close Skype completely
- Reopen and sign back in
- Try making a call
Method 3: Check Audio Settings
Verify microphone and speakers.
- Click three dots > Settings
- Go to Audio & Video
- Select correct Microphone
- Select correct Speakers
- Make a free test call
Method 4: Check Camera Settings
For video call issues.
- Settings > Audio & Video
- Check Camera dropdown
- Select your webcam
- Verify preview shows video
- Check camera isn’t used by another app
Method 5: Update Skype
Old versions have bugs.
- Click three dots > Settings > Help & Feedback
- Check current version
- Download latest from skype.com
- Install new version over old
- Restart Skype
Method 6: Check Windows Permissions
Skype needs camera/mic access.
- Windows Settings > Privacy > Microphone
- Enable Allow apps to access microphone
- Find Skype and enable it
- Repeat for Camera section
Method 7: Disable Firewall Temporarily
Firewall may block Skype.
- Windows Security > Firewall & protection
- Turn off temporarily to test
- Try Skype call
- If works, add Skype to firewall exceptions
- Re-enable firewall
Method 8: Reset Skype
Clear app data.
- Close Skype completely
- Windows Settings > Apps > Skype
- Click Advanced options
- Click Reset
- Sign in again
Method 9: Reinstall Skype
Fresh installation.
- Uninstall Skype from Windows
- Delete Skype folder in %appdata%
- Restart computer
- Download fresh from skype.com
- Install and sign in
Method 10: Check Skype Status
Service may be down.
- Visit support.skype.com/status
- Check for reported outages
- Also check downdetector.com
- Wait for Microsoft to fix if down
FAQ
Why can people not hear me on Skype?
If others can’t hear you, check microphone selection in Skype audio settings. Make free test call to verify mic works. Check Windows privacy settings allow Skype microphone access. Try different microphone if available.
Why does Skype call quality keep dropping?
Poor call quality indicates bandwidth issues. Close other apps using internet, move closer to router, or switch to wired connection. Skype automatically adjusts quality based on connection speed.
Why won’t Skype video work?
Video issues usually mean wrong camera selected or another app using the camera. Close other video apps, select correct camera in Skype settings, and check Windows camera permissions for Skype.
