ANU Current Position on Skype

Skype is a popular, easy to use set of applications that enable “real-time” communication and collaboration (such as voice calls, video calls, etc) and “near real time” messaging applications, via the Internet. It is one of a number of Internet based collaboration applications that have voice calling as the entry level service, commonly called VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).

However, due to the particular way in which the Skype applications operate, there are University Policy implications that University users of Skype must understand and comply with.

Additionally, there are security risks for Skype users which any potential user within the University Community should be aware of.

The University does not currently prevent the use of Skype by University Community users; The University will, however, block users who do not configure Skype in accordance with these Guidelines. By configuring Skype correctly, users protect the University’s overall Internet access obligations and network operations.

The University is actively developing a software based VoIP service in conjunction with AARNet and other AARNet members. This aims to provide the same features as Skype within the boundaries of the University’s Policy and without the security risks. In this development, the University is dedicated to the support and use of open source software, protocols and standards where possible. Unlike Skype, which is a closed community of Skype-only users, the University’s solution will allow access to any Internet user.

If you have contacted your LITSS and you have been informed by them that
your local area is protected from Skype supernodes, and you wish to proceed
with the Skype installation then you MUST follow these instructions

Return to skype policy home page