The most current version of Skype should be
used. Administrator priveleges must be used to install Skype, but you
should run it with a non-administrator account to prevent Skype from changing
your configuration (e.g., firewall rules, where used).
The user should configure his or her system such that Skype is not loaded at startup.
A software
firewall should be installed and enabled for all off-site systems.
Windows XP firewall or Zone Alarm are examples of suitable firewalls
for XP
The Windows XP firewall is turned on automatically on centrallly
managed laptops that leave the site.
Exceptions
for Skype must be disabled or deleted in the
firewall setup. This is done using the Administrator
account.
Windows XP
Firewall: Settings>Control Panel>Windows
Firewall>Exceptions
Detailed Configuration Instructions are located
below under Instructions for Skype
Configuration.
Using a
non-Administrator account for Skype, the above firewall configuration should
prevent the local system from becoming a SuperNode. A few additional caveats worth
noting:
Note that there is no technical support from the Computer Center for either the Skype application or
the configuration of your system to avoid becoming a SuperNode.
The user should insure that Skype
is not loaded at startup and is only running while the user is at the
computer to receive or make calls. There are two ways to ensure that Skype does not start when Windows starts.
Option 1: On the Sign In window in Skype
uncheck the box labeled StartSkype when the
computer starts as shown in the image to left. Continue to sign in
normally.
Guideline 2 Cont.
Option 2: If Skype is already running you can
disable it from starting when Windows starts by:
On the toolbar in Skype
go to Tools>Options.
When the Options window appears click on the
advanced tab on the left side at the bottom.
At the top of the advanced screen under Startup
uncheck the first box labeled "Start Skype
when I start Windows"
Continue by selecting Save at the bottom of the
window.
Guideline 3
A software
firewall such as Windows XP firewall or Zone Alarm must be installed and
enabled.
To enable the Windows
XP Firewall go to: Start > Control Panel > SecurityCenter
> Windows Firewall. The check box On (recommended) should be selected then
press Ok.
Guideline 4
Exceptions for Skype must be
disabled or deleted in the firewall setup. To disable exceptions for Skype go to: Start> Control Panel> SecurityCenter> Windows Firewall>
Exceptions. On the exceptions tab locate Skype, be
sure that box for it is unchecked, and then press Ok to continue.
