Skype is a free communication software that allows video calls, instant messaging, and file sharing between users. It uses a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system to transmit calls by converting voice signals into compressed data packets and sending them over the Internet. While Skype has advantages like ease of use and high quality audio, security and privacy cannot be guaranteed due to factors like the security of users' computers and networks, potential third parties accessing data, and Skype's ability to record conversations.

2. http://tinyurl.com/lphrjh

3. Skype is:a communication program that includes video, instant messaging, file sharing, etc. capabilities available to anyone.Skype is a free communication software that includes video calling, instant messaging, file sharing, etc. Skype was developed by Skype Technologies SA based in Luxembourg.Founded by Janus Friis and NiklasZennstrom who also created KaZaA.

4. Phones worldwide use a microphone to turn sound waves intoelectrical signals and the speaker to turn electrical signals back into sound waves. AT&T created the first telephone system in the 1970s that couldtransmit multiple phone calls over a single wire by turning eachphone call into a stream of its own data. This is called a VoIP system.Skype uses a VoIP system.

5. What’s a VoIP system?Voice over Internet ProtocolThe method of how our information (voice communication, multimedia sharing) is transmittedand delivered through our Internet service provider.Data wavescompressesbreakes waves into packetssends packets onlinereverses process on receiving end

6. Skype distinguishes itself from other VoIP networks:Popularity. Software and use of their network is free.User friendly, easily installable, no configurationneeded and works behind firewalls.High quality voice compressor.Supports instant messaging, searching and file transfers.Encrypted communications.

7. Issecure?

8. Hard to guarantee due to multiple factors:1. Security of the computer the Skype conversation taking place.2. Network the conversation occurs over. 3. Unknown third parties in the network.4. Skype’s “self updates.”

9. Privacy concerns for Skype users:Ability to record IM’s.Logged into the same“cloud”.3. Skype In and Skype Out use regular phone network.4. Depends on good will of programmers and organizations.