System Compatibility

• Skype is a large program that requires a sufficient amount of memory and processor speed in order to run smoothly. Video-sharing often involves using a sufficient amount of bandwidth, so it's important to run the program on a computer that meets the minimum system requirements. For optimal performance, use a computer with at least 1 GHz CPU and 512 MB of memory to improve video display speed and other components such as file transfer and audio.
  
  

Network Connection

• High-speed broadband network connections such as cable modems are more ideal for streaming video than slow network connections such as dial-up. Consequently, faster network connections are less likely to cause videos to freeze especially during group video calls. For video calling, Skype recommends a minimum speed of 128kbps; however, speeds of at least 1.2Mbps are more ideal for hi-definition video calling. Running the connections test in the call window can determine if your network connection speed is fast enough to handle video calls.
  
  

Drivers and System Updates

• It's important to keep your computer updated with the latest system tools, service packs and drivers to ensure that it performs optimally. Unfortunately, if your computer lacks vital updates such as the latest version of DirectX for Windows computers, Skype video may freeze, and the program may crash frequently. Manually editing your computer by deleting files and system components, especially from the registry can cause Skype video to freeze, if the program doesn't crash first.
  
  

Solutions

• Upgrade to a faster network connection speed to improve the streaming speed. If your computer doesn't have sufficient memory, close applications, especially media applications, to free up memory and CPU speed. Close unnecessary browser windows, and minimize the number of applications using the Internet to increase bandwidth. Although this may not give the program a supersonic boost, it can certainly make a huge difference during a video call. Avoid group video calling if your computer or network speed doesn't meet the minimum system requirements. The more video windows you have open, the more likely the program will freeze. Update your computer as often as updates are available. If you're not experienced with computer troubleshooting, don't delete or uninstall vital system files and components necessary for your computer to perform optimally.