| Step | Description | 
        
            | Reinstall Skype | Download and install the latest version 
                          of Skype. If you’re not sure what version of Skype you 
                          are using, it’s easy to find 
                          out. | 
        
            | Update Windows | Ensure that Windows has the latest service packs and updates installed. | 
        
            | Make sure you have the latest version of DirectX | For Windows Vista and Windows 7, you can get the latest version of DirectX by updating Windows with the latest service packs and updates. For Windows XP, you can download it here. | 
        
            | Make sure you have the latest device drivers | You can obtain the most recent drivers for your sound and video hardware from the website of your hardware manufacturer. | 
        
            | Ensure Skype is not running in compatibility mode | Running Skype in compatibility mode is not recommended. If you 
                          do, Skype may not work correctly. | 
        
            | Restart your system | If you have updated your system, for example if you have installed or uninstalled any programs, you may need to restart your computer. | 
        
            | Make sure your firewall settings are correctly configured | If you have a firewall, you may need to update your firewall setting 
                          to work with Skype. These 
                          instructions can help. | 
        
            | Undo any changes to your system settings | Manually editing your system settings can cause Skype to crash. Please undo changes you may have made before Skype started crashing. |