Oct 10, 2016 - Does anyone know how I can stop Skype desktop from mysteriously closing all by itself? If I walk away from my desk for a few minutes I come. Feb 20, 2019 - Skype keeps crashing tonight on Windows and Mac (Image: MICROSOFT). With it closing itself, as well as crashing during open conversations.
For businesses that use Skype's video calling software, problems with the program can hit productivity, customer and client relationships -- and profits. To fix the problem as quickly as possible, you need to identify the root cause -- a recent hardware or software change might have had an impact on Skype's operation, for example. A number of simple troubleshooting steps can help you resolve the problem and get Skype running smoothly again.
Program Issues
If Skype keeps closing on you, it's possible that a core part of the application has become damaged or an essential file has been erased. The easiest fix for this is to uninstall the program before downloading and installing the latest version from the official website (skype.com) -- this process replaces any files that have been deleted or corrupted, applies the latest fixes and patches and improves compatibility with the other hardware devices and software tools on your system.
Webcam or Hardware Issues
If you've recently started using a new webcam or installed another hardware device, it's possible that this is causing Skype to crash. Ensure the webcam or other device is fully and firmly plugged into your PC or laptop and download the latest hardware drivers from the manufacturer's website. It is also worth checking for the latest drivers for your motherboard and sound card, which again can be found via the manufacturer's website. Installing the newest drivers ensures maximum compatibility with the other devices and software on your system.
Third-party Software Issues
Another possibility if Skype is closing unexpectedly is that a third-party application is interfering and causing problems. If the issue began occurring after a recent software change, this could be the root cause. Shut down any background applications that aren't required while running Skype -- in particular any that may be accessing the sound card or webcam or may be using up large amounts of bandwidth. If you identify a troublesome program, check the developer's website to report the bug and check for any recent updates that may solve the issue.
General Issues
Other troubleshooting steps you can take if Skype is closing include ensuring that the latest Windows updates have been downloaded and installed. Also, Check that your installed firewall is configured to allow Skype to operate, and ensure the software is not running in compatibility mode. Windows' built-in System Restore tool can be used to roll back the operating system settings file to an earlier version if you suspect that recent Windows changes might be preventing Skype from working normally.
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Resources
About the Author
An information technology journalist since 2002, David Nield writes about the Web, technology, hardware and software. He is an experienced editor, proofreader and copywriter for online publications such as CNET, TechRadar and Gizmodo. Nield holds a Bachelor of Arts in English literature and lives in Manchester, England.
Photo Credits
- Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images
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Windows 10 now signs you into Skype automatically, making you available so you’ll always receive messages and incoming calls. If you’d rather not be signed into Skype all the time, here’s how to sign out.
There are two different Skype apps. One, currently called “Skype Preview”, now comes with Windows 10 and signs you in by default. Then there’s the older, traditional Skype desktop app you’re probably used to, that you have to download separately—though once you do, it also launches at boot and keeps you signed in at all times. Here’s how to stop one (or both) versions of Skype from running in the background.
Sign Out of Windows 10’s New Skype Preview App
RELATED:What’s New in Windows 10’s Anniversary Update
The new Skype Preview application signs you in by default after you upgrade to the Windows 10’s Anniversary Update or set up a new Windows 10 PC. You have to sign out of the Skype application if you want to stop this.
Open your Start menu and launch the “Skype Preview” application. You can either search for “Skype” and click the “Skype Preview shortcut, or scroll down to the “S” section in your list of installed apps and click the “Skype Preview” shortcut.
Click the profile icon at the bottom left corner of the Skype Preview window.
Click the “Sign Out” button at the bottom of your account status screen. Skype will sign out.
The next time you launch the Skype Preview app, it will ask you to sign in with your account. Skype won’t sign you in again unless you provide your account details.
Prevent the Skype Desktop App From Starting at Boot
The traditional desktop version of Skype does something similar after you install it. It automatically starts with your PC and signs you in by default, ensuring you’re always online to receive messages. You can tell Skype not to start when you sign in if you don’t want it constantly running in the background.
To do this, open the traditional Skype desktop application. That’s the “Skype” application in your Start menu—not the “Skype Preview” application included with Windows 10.
Click Tools > Options in the Skype window.
Uncheck the “Start Skype when I start Windows” option and click “Save”.
Skype won’t automatically start with your PC. It will only start when you launch it.
Prevent the Skype Desktop App From Running in the Background
The desktop version of Skype will still continue running after you launch it, keeping you signed in. Even if you close the Skype window, it will remain running in the background.
To close the Skype desktop application, locate the Skype icon in the notification area next to the clock on your taskbar. Right-click the Skype system tray icon and select “Quit”.
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