This FAQ provides advice on what to do if you have a problem with the audio quality of your call.

First, make sure that both you and the person you are calling are using the latest version of Skype. If you’re not sure what version of Skype you are using, it’s easy to find out.

Remember that if Skype identifies a problem with your call, a message will be displayed that suggests how to improve the quality of your call. Be sure to follow any suggestions made.

Learn more about how to obtain the best possible audio quality. If you can’t hear the other person at all, these tips can help.

Excessive background noise

To reduce background noise:

• Make sure you are calling from a quiet location.
• If you have more than one microphone available, make sure that Skype is using the right one.
• Move your microphone closer to your mouth and away from noise sources like your computer’s fan.

Call echo

If you hear your own voice as an echo, the problem is on the other person’s side. If the other person can hear their voice echoing, the problem is on your side.

To fix this, the person responsible should lower the speaker volume. If this doesn’t work, move the microphone as far away as possible from the speakers. (If the distance between your microphone and speakers is 20 cm or less, there will be an echo.)

Using a headset or headphones instead of speakers is an easy way to get rid of echo. You can buy a headset that's guaranteed to work seamlessly with Skype from the Skype Shop.

Robotic sounds, words being cut off, delay

You or the person you are calling may be experiencing problems due to a slow internet connection.

You should both try closing applications that use the internet (especially those that might be playing music or video) and cancel any file downloads.

Make sure that both you and the person you are talking to have the minimum bandwidth required to make a call.