Update Skype in your Windows computer is not just a matter of keeping it up to date: it is the most efficient way to ensure that your video calls are more stablesafe and smooth. 💬
If it has ever happened to you that the program closes by itself, does not recognize your microphone or the camera does not respond, it's probably time to install the latest version.
In this article I will explain how to update Skype in Windows step by stepeither from the Microsoft Storein the form of manual or even reinstalling the application for a clean result.
💡 Why is it important to keep Skype up to date?
Upgrading Skype is not just a technical whim.
Each new version incorporates safety improvements, unpublished functions y solutions to errors that can make a big difference in your daily experience.
- 🔒 Increased security: older versions may have vulnerabilities that leave your data exposed.
- 🚀 Optimized performance: updates reduce memory consumption and improve sound and video quality.
- 💬 New functions: Smoother group calls, customized backgrounds and automatic transcription are just a few examples.
- 🛠️ Correction of errors: If Skype closes unexpectedly, an update can resolve it instantly.
👉 Bottom line: upgrading Skype = improving your experience and protecting your privacy.
🧭 Method 1: Update Skype from the Microsoft Store
If you installed Skype from the Microsoft StoreThis method is the fastest and safest.
🔹 Step 1: Open the Microsoft Store
Click on the Home menu of Windows and type "Microsoft Store".
Open it by clicking on its shopping bag icon with the Microsoft logo.
🔹 Step 2: Access "Library".
In the lower left corner, click "Library".
Here you will see all your downloaded applications and if they have updates available.
🔹 Step 3: Find Skype
Scroll to find Skype in the list.
If there is a new version available, you will see the button "Update".
🔹 Step 4: Installing the update
Click on "Update" and wait for the download and installation to complete.
Once ready, you can open Skype and check that the latest version is running.
📌 Tip: if you have activated the automatic updatesMicrosoft Store will update Skype for you without you having to do anything.
🧰 Method 2: Update Skype from the application itself
Skype also allows check for updates internally from the program itself.
🔹 Step 1: Open Skype
Start Skype as usual from the Start menu or from the desktop shortcut.
🔹 Step 2: Go to the help menu.
In the upper left corner, click on "Help" or on the three points (...) to display the menu.
🔹 Step 3: Select "Check for updates".
Click on "Check for updates".
Skype will automatically check for a newer version.
🔹 Step 4: Follow the instructions.
If it finds an available update, it will offer you download and install the new version.
Once completed, the program will restart and you will have Skype updated.
💡 Trick: If Skype does not show you the "Check for updates" option, it is likely that your version is very old. In this case, you should update manually (as explained below).
🧩 Method 3: Update Skype manually from the official site
This method is ideal if you prefer install the latest version directly or if Skype does not update correctly.
🔹 Step 1: Visit the official website
Go to the official Skype download page:
👉 https://www.skype.com/es/get-skype/
🔹 Step 2: Select Windows version
Click on the button "Download Skype for Windows".
The installation file (e.g, SkypeSetupFull.exe) will be downloaded to your download folder.
🔹 Step 3: Execute the installer
Double-click on the downloaded file and follow the wizard instructions.
The installer will detect your current version and the will be replaced by the most recent.
🔹 Step 4: Logging in again
After installation, open Skype, sign in with your account and check that the update has been completed successfully.
🧠 Pro tip: if Skype was failing before, take advantage of it to uninstall it completely before reinstalling. This removes temporary files and corrupted settings.
🧹 Method 4: Reinstall Skype (for problematic updates)
Sometimes automatic updates fail or leave traces of previous versions.
If you notice that Skype is behaving strangely, a clean reinstallation may be the best solution.
🔹 Step 1: Uninstall Skype
Opens the Start → menu Configuration → Applications → Installed applications.
Search Skypeclick on the three dots and select "Uninstall".
🔹 Step 2: Remove old debris
Open the File Explorer and type in the bar:
%appdata%kype
Delete the folder that appears.
This deletes old configurations that could interfere.
🔹 Step 3: Download new version
Visit https://www.skype.com/es/get-skype/ and download the latest version.
🔹 Step 4: Install and configure.
Follow the installer instructions, log in and customize your settings.
You will now have a version clean, updated and stable.
🧾 Summary table of methods to update Skype.
| Method | Difficulty | Recommended for | Main steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Store | ⭐ Easy | Users with Windows 10/11 | Open Store → Library → Refresh |
| From Skype | ⭐⭐ Media | Those who already have Skype open | Menu → Help → Check for updates |
| Manual (web) | ⭐⭐ Media | When there are failures or Store does not work | Download official installer |
| Reinstall Skype | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ High | Serious problems or persistent errors | Uninstall → Clear data → Reinstall. |
⚙️ How to check your current Skype version
Before upgrading, you may want to know which version you are using.
- Open Skype.
- Click on your profile picture.
- Select "Configuration" → "Help and comments".
- You will see the version number (for example, Version 8.121.0.201).
If the number is lower than the one shown on the official website, you know you need to upgrade!
🌐 Enabling automatic updates in Skype
To forget about this process, you can enable automatic updates.
- Open Skype and go to Configuration → General.
- Search for the option "Download updates automatically".
- Activate it so that Skype is always kept up to date without your intervention.
🔔 Advantage: you ensure that you always have the safest and best performing version.
❓ FAQ: Frequently asked questions on how to upgrade Skype
🔹 Can I use Skype without updating it?
Yes, but it is not recommended. Older versions may fail to connect correctly or show compatibility errors.
🔹 Will my contacts or messages be lost when I upgrade?
No. Upgrades preserve your data, settings and conversations. Only the software is replaced.
🔹 Why doesn't Skype appear in the Microsoft Store?
You may have installed it from the official site. In that case, use the manual update method.
🔹 How long does it take to update Skype?
It depends on your internet connection, but usually it takes less than 3 minutes.
🔹 Can I update Skype on Windows 7?
Yes, although Microsoft no longer provides official support. It is better to use the web version or update your operating system.
🧩 Conclusion.
Upgrading Skype in Windows is a simple task, but fundamental to ensure smooth and uninterrupted use.
Whether from the Microsoft Storefrom the own application or by means of a manual installationkeeping Skype up to date is the best way to enjoy a secure and modern experience.
✨ Final tip: schedule a reminder every three months to check for available updates. Your future self (and your video calls) will thank you.