Skype glitch fixed, no big deal

Skype users affected by a recent glitch can now get back online by downloading the latest software update -- provided they're using Windows.

Windows users should be sure to quit completely out of Skype previously installing the update. Keep in mind that an open version of Skype can at times hide in the Windows task bar, and may launch automatically on start-up depending on the program's settings.

Either way, outages and errors are nettlesome as Skype tries to play a bigger role in online communication. Before this month Microsoft announced plans to acquire the voice and video chat service for $8.5 billion. Microsoft wants to integrate Skype into many consumer and business products, including Kinect and Outlook, during continuing to offer the service on other platforms.