How to Share Your Screen in Skype on Windows, Mac, and Linux

Edited 4 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

SkypeScreen SharingWindowsMacLinuxApplicationsSoftwareCommunicationCollaborationVideo CallsRemote Work

Skype is a widely used communication tool, perfect for chatting, video calls, and most importantly, screen sharing. Screen sharing in Skype can be very helpful for a variety of purposes, such as collaborating in a work environment, presenting projects, providing technical support, or even showing your family how something works on your computer. This guide will introduce you to the straightforward process of screen sharing in Skype, including steps on Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms. We'll break down the instructions for each platform into comprehensive steps so you can easily follow along and start sharing your screen in no time.

Understanding the basics of screen sharing

Before we dive deeper into platform-specific guidelines, it's important to understand what screen sharing is and why it can be useful. Screen sharing is a feature that allows you to show your computer screen to other users. This means that whatever you see, they can see it too. It's ideal for business meetings, online classes, seminars, and technical support. The shared screen can be toggled to show your entire desktop, a particular application, or a specific window.

Remember, to start sharing your screen, you need to have the latest version of Skype installed on your device. Make sure your software is up to date as Skype constantly improves its features and security protocols. An internet connection is required for screen sharing to work properly, as this is how data is transmitted to other users in your call.

Screen sharing on Windows

Sharing your screen using Skype on the Windows platform is quite easy. Follow these detailed steps:

1. Open Skype: Start the Skype application on your Windows computer. If you don't have Skype installed, you can download it from the official Skype website.
2. Log in to your account: Enter your credentials to log in. If you don't have an account, create one by following the on-screen instructions.
3. Select a contact: After logging in, select the contact or group you want to share your screen with. You can do this by clicking their name in the Contacts list.
4. Start a call: Start a call by clicking the Call button. You can choose between a video or audio call, as screen sharing works with both.
5. Find the Screen Sharing button: In the call screen, look for the Screen Sharing icon. This icon looks like two overlapping squares or a small monitor. Click this icon to proceed.
6. Select a screen share option: A window will open asking you to choose whether you want to share the entire screen or a specific window/application. Choose the appropriate option based on your needs.
7. Start sharing: After you've chosen your option, click Start Sharing. Your screen will now be visible to the other person on the call.
8. Stop sharing: To stop screen sharing, simply click the screen sharing button again. This will stop sharing and return to the regular call interface.

Screen sharing on Mac

For those using a Mac device, the process is similar but with a slight difference in the interface. Follow these steps to share your screen:

1. Open Skype: Launch the Skype application on your Mac. Make sure you're using the latest version of Skype for optimal performance and features.
2. Sign in: Log in to your Skype account with your username and password. New users should create an account through the app interface.
3. Select a call recipient: From your contacts list, select the person or group you want to share your screen with.
4. Start a call: Click the call button to start a conversation. You have the option of a voice call or a video call.
5. Access the screen sharing feature: Once the call is active, find the screen sharing button. It's usually located next to the video and microphone controls and appears as two overlapping squares.
6. Choose what to share: A dialog box will display options for what you can share. Here, you can choose the entire screen or a specific application window.
7. Start sharing: Click Share Screen to confirm your choice. The other party will now be able to see the area of your screen that you've chosen to share.
8. Stop screen sharing: To end screen sharing, click the Screen Sharing icon again, and the call will resume as normal without showing your screen.

Screen sharing on Linux

For users working on Linux, Skype also offers a screen sharing feature. Here's how you can enable it:

1. Launch Skype: Open the Skype application on your Linux system. The distribution for Linux is available from the official Skype downloads page.
2. Login to Skype: Enter your user details to access your Skype account.
3. Select a contact: Select the contact you want to share your screen with. You'll find this list in your Skype Contacts.
4. Start a call: Click to make an audio or video call. The sharing feature works with both types of calls.
5. Locate the Screen Share button: In the call toolbar, locate the Screen Share icon, represented by two intersecting rectangles or a display monitor icon.
6. Choose a share option: In the dialog that follows, you'll be given the option to share your entire screen or a specific application's window. Make your selections as needed.
7. Start screen share: Click Start Sharing. The content you select will be visible to participants in the call.
8. Stop sharing: To stop sharing your screen, click the Screen Sharing button once again. This turns the feature off and returns to the standard call view.

Additional tips for effective screen sharing

Here are some additional tips to facilitate a smooth and clear screen sharing experience for both you and the person you're sharing your screen with.

• Close unnecessary applications: For clarity and privacy, make sure only relevant windows are open. This prevents others from seeing unnecessary information and helps you focus on what's important.
• Use a stable internet connection: A strong internet connection guarantees a clear and seamless screen sharing experience.
• Take care of privacy: Avoid sharing sensitive and personal data. Always verify what is visible on your screen before sharing it.
• Use built-in chat: Take advantage of Skype's built-in chat to share screens as well as provide textual explanations for better understanding.
• Use presentation tools: Use on-screen pointers and markers, if necessary, to highlight important information during your presentation.

Security: Skype has secure protocols for sharing your screen and protecting your privacy. However, always be careful about who you share your screen with to avoid leaking sensitive information.

Conclusion

Screen sharing in Skype is a very useful feature that enhances communication, collaboration, and understanding in remote conversations. Whether you are having a business meeting, taking a class, or helping a friend with a technical solution, screen sharing is helpful in bringing clarity to your conversation. The procedures are almost the same in Windows, Mac, and Linux, providing flexibility irrespective of the platform. Complete understanding and cautious approach towards using this feature not only makes your presentation professional but also protects your data from potential exploitation.

This guide provides detailed instructions and essential information to make the most of Skype's screen sharing capability. Follow these steps, and you'll soon be sharing your screen with confidence and ease.

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