• For Skype 4.0 and later
• For Skype 3.8 and earlier

For Skype 4.0 and later

In order to use more than one Skype account on the same computer at the same time you need to start a new instance of Skype: 

1. From the Windows taskbar, click Start > Run (or press the Windows and R keys on your keyboard at the same time) 
2. In the Run window, enter the following command (include the quotes) and press OK:

"C:\Program Files\Skype\Phone\Skype.exe" /secondary

If you get any error messages, please copy and paste the exact command from this email and try again.

Please keep in mind that if you have changed the installation path for Skype then you need to enter the correct path for the Skype.exe file.

If this solution fails, you can try another option: 

1. Find the Skype executable file (Skype.exe) in: C:\Program Files\Skype\Phone\ 
2. Right click on it and choose: Send to > Desktop (create shortcut) 
3. Locate the shortcut on the desktop, then right-click on it and choose Properties 
4. In the Target field, add: /secondary. The Target field should now be: "C:\Program Files\Skype\Phone\Skype.exe" /secondary 
5. Click OK. You can now start a new instance of Skype every time you double-click on the new shortcut.

For Skype 3.8 and earlier

Requirements: Windows XP, Two Skype User accounts

First, create a new Windows user by going to the Control Panel and clicking on User Accounts. Choose Create a new account and follow the steps to set permissions. We also suggest setting a password for the new user by clicking on the newly created user and choosing the Set Password option. The new user will also require admin rights on your PC.

Next, create a shortcut to Skype or make a copy of the shortcut that is already in the Start menu. Right-click this new shortcut and choose Properties. On the bottom of the first page there is a button labelled Advanced... . Click this button and select Run with different credentials. Select OK, and then select OK again to close the Properties dialog.

You're all set. Whenever you use this new shortcut it will ask for a Windows username and password. Enter the Skype Name and password of the user you created earlier by choosing The following user: option. Click OK and you'll have a second instance of Skype. It will require that you sign in with your Skype Name and password the first time.

To help automate the Run as trick you can create a second desktop icon for Skype and modify its properties. Click the Advanced button and check the box Run with different credentials. After clicking on the modified icon it will ask you to sign in as another user. Changing the icon graphic also helps ensure you click on the correct icon.

If you have multiple USB headsets or USB Phones you should be able to set up both instances of Skype to use a different sound device.