If you are checking this out around the time of this writing, then you can listen to Andreas from Skype LIVE on Script School Radio.

A couple things to clear up and clarify about Skype as it eclipses that somewhat historic one million download mark:

- Skype was created by the developers of Kazaa, but the Skype developers were not responsible for the spyware that follows that application around like a cancer. The spyware was added after the sale of Kazaa to its current owner, Sharman Networks.
- whenever a user logs on, a *fresh* private-public key pair is generated (locally) and signed by central server, effectively certifying that “the holder of this key pair was able to logon successfully — ie s/he knew the account password“. in addition, the server keys can be revoked and replaced, should the server be compromised. (source Jaan, senior developer in bbs thread) and more on security in this thread: skype uses 1536 to 2048 bit RSA to negotiate symmetric AES keys. user public keys are certified by skype server at login. all profile data in the public directory is digitally signed.
- Skype is licensing their P2P technology from Joltid, which is a parent company. For more information on these trademarked products: peer enabler and peer cache
- SKype does not contain any spyware or malware. Just analyze the outgoing activity if you doubt this.
- Skype user downloads and online use has grown much faster than anticipated for a beta release
- the hot buttons that Stuart requests here will be forthcoming and might even be assignable by the user. As I mentioned to Stuart via Skype, these type of buttons are easy to add in various programming libraries.
- Skype is currently BETA software, which means that the rules could change when they go full release, which they have been very open and honest about in their End User License Agreement (EULA).
- They have publically indicated (see their BBS) that the goal is to keep basic PC to PC communication/functionality for personal use, via Skype free. Note the words “personal use”. There is going to be a pay model and Andreas indicated to me that my estimated figures were “not that far off” (again, for personal use).

Andreas was intentionally vague with me on some issues that would have been a violation of the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), which I totally respect. Sometimes things that are Release Candidate don’t make it for one reason or another. Speculation about those type of features, functions or bugs, isn’t all that useful to the overall project anyway and can be more time-draining than productive.

For those who are looking for a negative point of view of Skype There is a thread: “They’re already envious and on the attack” in response to this article.

Did this post make you go hmm?

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