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Remarkable features of Skype

Cannot make calls and no dial tone in Skype for Windows

Currently there are no reliable data, but it seems some users of Skype for Window encountered an unusual problem — they can not make audio or video calls abroad (at least, in all cases known to me the interlocutors were in different countries). It should be noted that other features, including sending instant messages and transfer files, work without any problems.

It happens like this (although I think the different scenarios are possible): when you try to make a video call, it’s shown the "Connecting..." inscription, then, 20 seconds after, Skype suggests to leave a video message. It continues connecting somewhere else ~ 50 seconds, and finally hangs up the call allegedly "Call to ***, no answer". With audio calls happening about the same, only in this case, Skype does not suggest to leave a video message. Also in both cases, the user who is calling does not hear dial tone, and one that has to receive it, does not see an incoming call notification. Another characteristic of this bug is that it is impossible to make a test call (ie to call echo123 user).

In some cases, an autoresponder answers, and says that:
The person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please leave your message after the beep.

What else is known about this error:
  • Occurs when using a proxy.
  • Arises due to some anti-virus programs.
  • Sometimes can be fixed by disabling Skype Translator.
  • If using the same account on multiple devices, the call goes to non-Windows devices.


Number of users confirming this error: ???

As I understand it, even if the error does not affect all users, many already faced with it, and most likely the problem is global in scale. But while the developers have not released a patch, I suggest you a temporary solution on how to fix this error.

How to fix the problem?

First you need to determine on which side the error occurs. To do this, both of you should try to make a test call — who does not hear the voice of the robot, then he should follow the instructions listed below (although not exclude that both can experience problems).


Solution

The problem may be solved in some ways:
  1. The first is the easiest: close Skype, click right click on the Skype shortcut, choose "Properties", go to the "Compatibility" tab, put a check in front of the option "Run this program in compatibility mode" select «Windows XP (SP3)», click "OK" and run Skype. It should be noted that in this case, the program may become unstable. This method suggested the blog reader ZumZum (and though he had another error associated with the sound during the screen demonstration, this method certainly works).

  2. The second, more radical way: you should to remove Skype and install the 7.25.0.106 version. 7.16.0.102 version. I found this solution myself, so to speak, method of spear (though it was not difficult because I already knew that the 7.18 version does not work properly).

  3. If the previous suggestions do not help, and you have installed the Avast antivirus, try temporarily to disable it. If you use proxy, try direct connections.

  4. The next one to try, open Skype → Tools → Options → Skype Translator, uncheck the «Enable Skype Translator» option and click «Save».

  5. Incorrect Internet Explorer settings (for example, enabled “Offline mode” or disabled HTTPS) may also be the cause of the lack of outgoing calls. If there is no time to deal with IE settings, reset Internet Explorer settings.

  6. In extreme cases, it’s worth trying to disable the NGC audio codec (instruction).

If this guide has helped you, please leave a comment which method fixed your problem and provide some information about your system.

10 comments

  1. 0 0 0
    Gian-Paolo (karma: 0),
    Encountered in 7.28.80.101 , solved downgrading to 7.28.64.101 .
    7.29.0.102 is OK too
    1. 0 0 0
      Administrator (karma: +1208),
      Hi! Are you sure that issue exists in 7.28.80.101, but not in 7.28.64.101? I'm asking because the third digit in the Skype version is just the affiliate number, and should not affect the functionality of the Skype.
  2. 0 0 0
    Phil.Li (karma: 0),
    7.16 is ok.
    7.29 is not ok for me.
    Thx
  3. 0 0 0
    Endri (karma: +1),
    Tryed all of them, noone is working.

    Before, version 7.0.0.102 was the solution for this problem in my case.
    Now, i still have not found...
  4. 0 0 0
    alcoron (karma: +1),
    Hello.

    I use Windows XP. When I tried the Skype's latest version I was unable to make calls - a voice was telling that the "number I dialled was temporarily unavailable.

    I came across this thread two weeks ago and tried with the 7.25.0.106 version. It worked and I was able to talk but since today I once again can't make calls - it says I was using an old version of Skype and have to download the new one, which does not work. I just tried with 7.16.0.102 but to no avail.

    What should I do now?
    1. 0 0 0
      Administrator (karma: +1208),
      Hi! Have you tried other solutions? By the way, please note that version 7.25.0.106 is still supported and downloading the latest version of Skype for Windows is just a recommendation.
      1. 0 0 0
        alcoron (karma: +1),
        Hi! It is good that version 7.25.0.106 is still supported but when I try to make a call in that version it says I have to download Skype's latest version in order to do so. As I said, initially version 7.25.0.106 did work fine for making calls but no more. Therefore, de facto it appears that if one would like to use Skype calls the latest version is a necessity, not a recommendation.

        I did try the other suggested solutions as well: by clicking on the Skype shortcut "Properties" I have only two tabs: "General" and "Shortcut" and no Compatibility tab. I also looked in Skype → Tools → Options → but I could not find "Skype Translator".

        Is the Skype team trying to make the latest version compatible?
        1. 0 -1 1
          Administrator (karma: +1208),
          Hmmm... I tested 7.25.0.106 now and I’m able to make calls as well as video calls. Maybe it depends on the Skype version or operating system of your friend? Does this problem occur with all the contacts? Even with echo123? Anyway, I recommend you to install Skype 7.36.0.150 for Windows and let me know if it works.
  5. 0 0 0
    Nina (karma: 0),
    I do receive a sound or notification about an incoming group call. I need to physically be looking at skype in order to see a group call starting. There's no notification sound. I am using Skype version 12.1815.210.0. These issues started once I started using this version of skype.
  6. 1 +1 0
    Scott Chiesa (karma: +4),
    I had the same issue for several months. After a laborious but fruitful exchange with Skype Support (Virtual Assistant, subsequent email exchanges with several Skype Support people, Remote Desktop Control, etc!) the support team eventually figured out that there is an issue with the Subtitles Function. They have now updated the FAQ here:

    https://support.skype.com/en/faq/FA34713/faq-and-known-issues-with-skype

    When making a call and using the Dial Pad to select the option for Touch Tones, they will not work if you have subtitles enabled on the call.

    To workaround this issue simply disable subtitles: Select your profile picture > Settings > Calling > Call Subtitles, then turn off the option to Show subtitles for all voice and video calls.

    Note: If you don't have the option turned on to Show subtitles for all voice and video calls but have turned subtitles on for an individual call, starting a new call with your contact will resolve this issue.

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