It's simple to set up Skype on a PC following a few steps. To use Skype, you'll need a webcam - all modern laptops have one built in, as do most new all-in-one PCs. If you need to buy a webcam, you shouldn't have to spend more than £15 for a simple USB webcam that should install itself when you plug it in.

Download Skype

In your web browser, go to www.skype.com and click the green Get Skype button at the top-right of the window. If you’re using a Windows PC, click Get Skype for Windows desktop.

Save and run the SkypeSetup.exe file. If you're asked for permission to go ahead with the installation, click Yes. 

Select your language, then click I agree – next when you’ve read Skype’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Extra installation options

Skype Click to call lets you dial numbers you see on web pages using Skype. Uncheck Install Skype Click to Call if you don’t want this feature.

If you don’t want MSN as your web browser's home page or Bing as your search engine, uncheck these boxes. Click Continue.

Sign in or sign up

At the sign-in screen, you can sign in with an existing Microsoft, Facebook or Skype account. If you have none of these, click Create an account. Enter your name, date of birth and other details – and choose a Skype Name and password. 

Click I agree – Continue to log into your new account. When the account opens, click Yes to the request for all calls and Skype links to open Skype for Windows desktop, and follow the instructions.

Test sound and video

Click Test sound to check your speakers are working. Speak out loud to check the microphone is picking up your voice. You should see yourself on camera – plug in a webcam if your PC doesn’t have one.

Next, set up a profile picture. Click Take a picture to snap one with your webcam or click Browse to choose one from your computer. Click Use this picture to confirm your choice.