Internet Protocol Private Branch

In the first official update posted by the official Skype Twitter account early December 22 210, it was reported that they were aware that users were having problems signing in and that the company's engineers were investigating the issue. The first official Skype Blog update at 2pm December 2 2010 stated that that many of the VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) system's supernodes failed because of a at the time unidentified software issue. Supernodes are the part of Skype programming that VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) users need to be able to find other Skype users.

Skype as well reported that much of the functionality of the accounts that users did have access to would run much slower than usual. Affected services include instant message chats, video calling and all account updates.

However, in the same sentence, Skype completely contradicts itself stating that, "...Skype Manager and our other web-based functions will continue to stay offline for a little longer..." This statement turned a bit of good news into a bit of not so good news. Considering that most Skype Connect users-business owners-need Skype Manager to monitor their employees using Connect accounts, it is difficult to understand how Skype believes that Connect is working fine.

Skype Connect allows business users to "hook" an IP PBX telephone system into their Skype accounts at the same time. IP PBX, or Internet Protocol Private Branch Exchange, is a phone system that interprets at that time sends and receives data using a regular phone network, called a Public Switched Telephone Network. Business owners assign employees Skype accounts, diverts finds and other features into those accounts and monitor the employees using them with Skype Manager.

Connect account can be used without the Manager

While a Connect account can be used without the Manager, it would be difficult to monitor the accounts and business owners cannot be sure the accounts are not being manipulated or taken advantage of in any way. It could easily mean a calling and data "free for all" if those affected get wind that the Manager is not working.

Jessica Torpey is a self-taught computer technician with more than 10 years experience in the field. JC's passion is studying the various political and business aspects of the innovation industry. Combining that knowledge with her love of computers, JC uses it to influence her writing.