Fix: Skype Call Failed

Many users face the problem of their calls failing when they are trying to contact someone through Skype. The issue might persist due to a number of reasons such as faulty hardware, third-party applications interfering, your Antivirus blocking Skype services, outdated drivers etc. We have listed down a number of workarounds to solve this problem. Take a look.

Solution 1: Upgrading Skype

If you have an older version of Skype installed on your computer, it is recommended that you upgrade it to the latest version as soon as possible. As we all know, Windows keeps rolling out updates to its operating system and side by side, it also provides updates to its application (Skype). If both of them are not in sync, this might prove a problem for many users. Furthermore, there are numerous bug fixes targeted in the new update for the application. You can easily download the latest version of Skype using the official Microsoft website.

Download the executable to an accessible location and uninstall the currently installed version of Skype using “Programs and features” (press Windows + R and type “appwiz.cpl”). After the uninstallation, run the new executable and install the latest version.

Solution 2: Disabling Antivirus Software and Firewall

We can try disabling your Firewall and check if the restart procedure. Windows Firewall monitors your incoming and outgoing internet data and packets. It also blocks some connections or some applications from installation if they don’t fulfill its criteria. You should also disable any antivirus software which is enabled on your computer.

1. Press Windows + R button to bring up the Run application. In the dialogue box type “control”. This will open your computer’s control panel in front of you.
2. In the top right there will be a dialogue box to search. Write firewall and click on the first option that comes as a result.

3. Now at the left side, click the option which says “Turn Windows firewall on or off”. Through this, you can turn your firewall off easily.

4. Select the option of “Turn off Windows Firewall” on both the tabs, Public and Private Networks. Save changes and exit. Restart your computer and check if the problem gets resolved.

Solution 3: Updating Microsoft based browsers

It is a fact that Skype uses Microsoft based browsers for its communication even if you don’t use them. If they are not updated to the latest version, this might be the cause you are experiencing problems. Update the browsers to the latest build, restart your computer and check if this makes any difference. Remember it is not necessary that you use those browsers, Skype is designed in such a way that it communicates with the internet using them. Here are the links to the official Microsoft website for your ease of access.

Internet Explorer

Microsoft Edge

Solution 3: Deleting Configuration Files

Another workaround which seemed to solve the problem was deleting the configuration files of your Skype account from your computer and then resetting the internet settings. After you delete these files, Windows will automatically recreate them; hence avoiding any bad configurations which were there in the past.

1. Make sure that Skype is closed down properly before you proceed with this solution. Exit Skype properly using the option present in the application.
2. Press Windows + R, type “%appdata%\Skype” and press Enter.

3. Here you will find a number of configuration files. Select and delete them.

4. Now, will reset internet explorer’s settings to make sure that the problem doesn’t occur due to any bad configurations. Press Windows + R, type “inetcpl.cpl” and press Enter.
5. Once in internet options, navigate to the advanced tab. Click “Reset” present at the near bottom of the screen.

6. Check the option “Delete personal settings” when the new window comes forth. Click “Reset”.

Note: This action will reset the internet explorer. All your add-ons will be disabled and all your home pages will be reset. Proceed at your own risk.

7. Now restart your computer and check if this made any difference.

Solution 4: Updating Drivers Manually

Many users reported that they experienced this error because their drivers were not updated to the latest build. The drivers you should target are display, microphone, camera etc. You should manually download all the drivers from your manufacturer’s website and install them one by one. Don’t leave any out and routinely perform a restart after updating each driver.

1. Press Windows + R to launch the Run Type “devmgmt.msc” in the dialogue box and hit Enter. This will launch your computer’s device manager.
2. Navigate through all the hardware, and right click on the device, and select “Update driver”.

3. Now Windows will pop a dialogue box asking you which way do you want to update your driver. Select the second option (Browse my computer for driver software) and proceed.

Select the driver file you downloaded using the browse button when it appears and update it accordingly.

4. Restart your computer after each update and after updating all drivers, check if the problem gets resolved.

Note: You should target reinstalling the sound card driver. Skype performs routine checks whether it is working as expected before moving on in making the call