Skype Usage
Skype and the University Network
Skype (www.skype.com) is a free Internet telephony product that uses peer-to-peer (P2P) networking protocols. This allows users to make free internet-based phone calls.
There are three main concerns with using Skype on the University network:
- Skype uses excessive network resources.
- The Skype User Agreement makes the user agree to provide services to Skype for resources owned by the University. Individual users are not empowered to give such consent.
- Skype's default installer comes with additional unnecessary content not needed for users which tends to bog down said user's system(s).
For more information on Network resources, please see the University policy on "Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources, Appendix A - Using Information Technology Resources Standards" where it states:
" ... Refrain from monopolizing systems, overloading systems or networks with excessive data, or wasting computer time, connect time, disk space, printer paper, manuals, or other resources."
Instances of Skype on the University network have been found to be the highest users of network resources. This is likely because the software can act as a Supernode. From the Skype privacy policy:
"A Supernode is a computer running Skype Software that has been automatically elevated to act as a hub. Supernodes may assist in helping other users to communicate or use the Skype Software efficiently. This may include the ability for your computer to help anonymously and securely facilitate communications between other users of the Skype software who, due to network and firewall constraints, cannot establish direct connections."
Therefore, running Skype means your system can (and probably will) participate in providing Voice over IP (VoIP - internet phone calls) services outside of your direction and control. You are also agreeing to provide services to Skype for resources owned by the University. Individual users are not empowered to give such consent.
Because of these potential risks, other options are to use a different VoIP service or limit how you used Skype.
Before using Skype or another similar product, please check with the VT OIS Team, and be sure to configure the software so that your computer and the University network will remain secure.
The proper version to install, for Skype, is the Business version. This version does NOT have any of the additional clutter, such as "plugins" or "chatrooms" etc. It's a plain business edition of their software that allows you to chat with other Skype users and call them via their VOIP network.