Ensure your Skype software is up-to-date. Upgrading to the latest version can fix bugs and resolve other technical issues that might affect the quality of a Skype call.

Use Ethernet if possible. Wireless networks, while useful for those on the move, can experience signal degradation problems that can affect the quality of Skype calls. Using Ethernet to place your call eliminates this degradation and gives you the highest bandwidth possible.

Don't download from the Web while using Skype. This includes file downloads, movie streaming and online gaming. The less bandwidth Skype has available for a call, the lower the quality will be. Chances of skipping audio and lagging transmission will increase if bandwidth is lower than expected.

Sign up for a faster Internet package. If you're finding that you've taken the steps to improve Skype and are still experiencing problems, the fault may lie with your Internet service provider and not you. Call your provider and ask about faster packages--these packages offer increased upload and download bandwidth, which can have a dramatic effect on the quality of Skype calls.