Skype

[jayemcee]

I am using windows XP and internet explorer 8. I have very recently downloaded Skype and installed camera and mike. I have googled and have not found any comprehensive user manuals and am therefore trying to "learn as I go".
The last half a dozen times I have tried, after a few minutes the screen has frozen and I have lost the cursor and, also of course control of the screen. The usual Esc & Ctrl will not release me either so I have had to turn off the computer. Can you tell me where I am going wrong please.

[Buenchico]

A bit of web searching suggests that certain versions of Skype seem to cause lock-ups with some Windows systems (particularly with XP). So the first thing to do should be to check that you're using the latest version. Skype 6.9.0.106 was only released a coupler of weeks ago so, if you've not already got that version, give it a try.

Otherwise try an earlier version. (Completely uninstall Skype first and then install the older version). Skype 6.3.0.107 should be your first choice. If that doesn't work, try Skype 6.0.0.120
http://www.oldapps.com/skype.php

[Buenchico]

Another thought:
System lock-ups are usually caused by software conflicts. Sometimes there's software running on your computer that you don't even know about (and which might well be the cause of the problem).

Download, install and run the free version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, to see if it finds anything nasty:
http://www.malwarebytes.org/products/malwarebytes_free/
(NB: When installing, remove the tick alongside the option that offers you a free trial of the paid-for 'PRO' version).

[Mojo-Jo-Jo]

I run XP. Download the latest version of Skype and it should be fine.
XP rocks

[galeck1947]

I would run a speed check on your internet connection as Skype requires a lot of bandwidth to operate properly. If your screen freezes then that is an indication of insufficient band width .Your ISP should have a speed test for you to use otherwise use www.speedtest.net which will give the results you need. What sort of internet connection do you have ?

[jayemcee]

I have been aol for a couple of days sorry for lack of response. When I first downloaded skype I had a message that my system could not support the larest version and was directed to version 6.1.999.130. Following your suggestion I have checked my speed, it 77mbps downloading & 79 uploading.
I have also checked that I have enough RAM ( 1.9gb) and 2ghz processing and I have directx-9 for pics; this all suggest that I should be OK? I haven't tried the malware you suggest but I do have IObit malware and also ESET protection. I have had my kit for about 7 yrs now, could I just be outdated?