Skype has revolutionized the way we communicate, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to make voice and video calls, send messages, and share files with others across the globe. One of the key features that sets Skype apart from other communication platforms is the ability to obtain a Skype phone number, also known as a Skype Number or Online Number. In this article, we will delve into the world of Skype phone numbers, exploring what they are, how they work, and the benefits they offer.
What is a Skype Phone Number?
A Skype phone number is a unique phone number that is assigned to your Skype account, allowing you to receive calls from traditional landline and mobile phones. This number is tied to your Skype account and can be used to receive calls from anyone, regardless of whether they have a Skype account or not. Skype phone numbers are available in over 25 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, among others.
How Does a Skype Phone Number Work?
When you obtain a Skype phone number, you can receive calls from traditional phones, just like you would with a regular landline or mobile phone number. The caller dials your Skype phone number, and the call is routed through Skype’s servers to your Skype account. You can then answer the call using your Skype app on your computer, mobile device, or tablet.
Skype phone numbers also allow you to make outbound calls to traditional phones, using your Skype credit or subscription. This means you can use your Skype phone number to call friends, family, or business associates who don’t have a Skype account.
Benefits of Having a Skype Phone Number
Having a Skype phone number offers several benefits, including:
- Convenience: With a Skype phone number, you can receive calls from anyone, anywhere in the world, without the need for a traditional landline or mobile phone.
- Cost-effectiveness: Skype phone numbers can be more cost-effective than traditional phone numbers, especially for international calls.
- Flexibility: You can use your Skype phone number to make and receive calls from any device with an internet connection, including computers, mobile devices, and tablets.
- Professionalism: A Skype phone number can give your business a more professional image, especially if you’re a freelancer or entrepreneur.
How to Get a Skype Phone Number
Getting a Skype phone number is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few steps:
Step 1: Sign in to Your Skype Account
To get a Skype phone number, you need to have a Skype account. If you don’t have one, sign up for free on the Skype website. If you already have a Skype account, sign in to your account using your username and password.
Step 2: Go to the Skype Website
Once you’re signed in to your Skype account, go to the Skype website and click on the “Get a Skype Number” button.
Step 3: Choose Your Country and Number
Select the country where you want to get a Skype phone number and choose a number from the available options. You can choose a number that is close to your area code or a toll-free number.
Step 4: Pay for Your Skype Number
Skype phone numbers are available for a monthly or yearly fee, depending on the country and number you choose. You can pay for your Skype number using your credit card or PayPal.
Skype Number Pricing
The cost of a Skype phone number varies depending on the country and number you choose. Here are some approximate prices for Skype numbers in different countries:
| Country | Monthly Fee | Yearly Fee |
| — | — | — |
| United States | $6.99 | $69.99 |
| United Kingdom | £5.99 | £59.99 |
| Canada | $6.99 | $69.99 |
| Australia | $6.99 | $69.99 |
Managing Your Skype Phone Number
Once you have a Skype phone number, you can manage it from your Skype account settings. Here are some things you can do to manage your Skype phone number:
Forwarding Calls
You can forward calls from your Skype phone number to another phone number, such as your mobile phone or landline. This means you can receive calls from your Skype phone number even when you’re not online.
Blocking Calls
You can block calls from specific numbers or area codes to prevent unwanted calls.
Changing Your Skype Number
You can change your Skype phone number at any time, but you’ll need to pay a fee to do so.
Skype Number Porting
If you want to keep your existing phone number and use it with Skype, you can port it to Skype. This means you can transfer your existing phone number to Skype and use it as your Skype phone number.
Conclusion
A Skype phone number is a powerful tool that can help you communicate more effectively with others, whether it’s for personal or business use. With its convenience, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility, a Skype phone number is an essential feature for anyone who uses Skype regularly. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can get a Skype phone number and start enjoying the benefits of Skype’s online phone service.
What is a Skype phone number and how does it work?
A Skype phone number, also known as a Skype Number, is a real phone number that allows people to call you on Skype from their mobile or landline phones. This feature enables users to receive calls from anyone, even if they don’t have Skype installed on their device. When someone calls your Skype phone number, the call is routed through Skype’s servers and connected to your Skype account, allowing you to answer the call on your computer, mobile device, or other supported devices.
Skype phone numbers are available in many countries and can be purchased as a subscription-based service. Once you’ve obtained a Skype phone number, you can manage it through your Skype account settings, including setting up call forwarding, voicemail, and other features. This feature is particularly useful for businesses or individuals who want to maintain a professional presence and receive calls from clients or customers who may not use Skype.
How do I get a Skype phone number?
To get a Skype phone number, you need to have a Skype account and purchase a Skype Number subscription. You can do this by logging into your Skype account, going to the “Manage features” section, and selecting “Get a Skype Number.” From there, you can choose your country, select a phone number, and complete the purchase process. Skype offers various subscription plans, including monthly and yearly options, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Once you’ve purchased a Skype Number, it will be assigned to your Skype account, and you can start receiving calls from anyone who dials that number. You can also customize your Skype Number settings, such as setting up call forwarding or voicemail, to manage your calls more effectively. Keep in mind that Skype Numbers are subject to availability, so you may not always get the exact number you want.
What are the benefits of having a Skype phone number?
Having a Skype phone number offers several benefits, including increased flexibility and convenience. With a Skype phone number, you can receive calls from anyone, regardless of whether they use Skype or not. This makes it easier to stay connected with clients, customers, or colleagues who may not use Skype. Additionally, Skype phone numbers can help you maintain a professional presence, as you can use a dedicated phone number for business purposes.
Another benefit of Skype phone numbers is that they can help you save money on international calls. With Skype, you can make and receive calls at a lower cost than traditional phone services, especially for international calls. This can be particularly useful for businesses or individuals who frequently communicate with people in other countries. Overall, Skype phone numbers offer a convenient and cost-effective way to manage your communications.
Can I use my Skype phone number to make outgoing calls?
Yes, you can use your Skype phone number to make outgoing calls to mobile or landline phones. When you make a call from your Skype phone number, the call is routed through Skype’s servers and connected to the recipient’s phone. This feature allows you to make calls from your Skype account, using your Skype phone number as the caller ID.
Keep in mind that making outgoing calls from your Skype phone number may incur additional charges, depending on your Skype subscription plan and the recipient’s location. Skype offers various calling plans, including pay-as-you-go and subscription-based options, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. You can also check Skype’s rates and plans to estimate the cost of your calls.
How do I manage my Skype phone number settings?
To manage your Skype phone number settings, log into your Skype account and go to the “Manage features” section. From there, select “Skype Number” and click on the “Manage” button next to your phone number. This will take you to the Skype Number settings page, where you can customize various options, such as call forwarding, voicemail, and caller ID.
On the Skype Number settings page, you can also view your call history, manage your voicemail messages, and update your phone number settings. Additionally, you can set up call forwarding to redirect incoming calls to another phone number or voicemail. Skype also allows you to customize your caller ID, so you can choose how your name and number appear to recipients.
Can I cancel or change my Skype phone number?
Yes, you can cancel or change your Skype phone number at any time. To cancel your Skype phone number, log into your Skype account, go to the “Manage features” section, and select “Skype Number.” Click on the “Manage” button next to your phone number, then click on the “Cancel” button to cancel your subscription.
If you want to change your Skype phone number, you can do so by purchasing a new Skype Number subscription. Keep in mind that you may not be able to transfer your existing phone number to a new subscription, so you may need to update your contacts and notify others of your new phone number. Skype also offers a feature to port your existing phone number to Skype, but this may not be available in all countries or regions.
Is my Skype phone number secure and private?
Yes, Skype takes the security and privacy of your phone number seriously. Skype uses advanced security measures, such as encryption and secure servers, to protect your phone number and call data. Additionally, Skype complies with various data protection regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union.
Skype also allows you to control who can see your phone number and call history. You can customize your privacy settings to restrict access to your phone number and call data, and you can also block unwanted callers or report spam calls. Skype also offers two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security to your account and protect your phone number from unauthorized access.