What is skype and how does it work?

What exactly is skype and how does it work and how do i use the service?

• i know it has some thing to do with internet phone calls but i need to know more about it. exactly what is skype and who provides the service and how do i make use of it,,, the reason why i ask this is because i have a wi-fi enabled cell phone that a lot of time i am out of my home cellular service area.

• Answer:

  Skype is an internet calling service which includes software. To use it for free, you and the other person you're talking to both need the Skype app installed on your phone or computer, and both of you need to be connected to either WiFi, or 3G, or high speed Internet. The service is provided by Skype. Skype will NOT work if your phone doesn't have an Internet connection (via WiFi or 3G etc.), or if your phone is on a slow Internet connection, or if you are using it on a computer with dial-up Internet. If you pay extra to Skype, you can also use it to call normal phone numbers, which may cost less than making a normal call on your phone. To get started, download the Skype app on your phone, or go to www.skype.com. It's free unless you want to make calls to normal phone numbers or use other special features.