Skype users have been facing problems for a few days now and it doesn’t look like they are going to be solved any time soon. The VOIP provided has been experiencing major outages caused by a glitch in their peer-to-peer connection system.
Why has Skype Crashed?
To be specific the supernodes that Skype uses to provide the extra bandwidth for calls have failed. Think of them as virtual telephone exchanges. Skype users who connect quickly (they might have good internet connections, the same devices etc.) have no need for the exchange (supernode).
However, if for some reason a call can’t be connected, due to a slow connection, PC or Device the call we be routed through the supernode/exchange to provide extra juice to make a connection – this is extremely common and up until now has worked well.
If the SuperNodes can’t be accessed the system goes into meltdown – this is what has happened to Skype today.
What’s the latest?
It has been reported that up to 25 million people are experiencing outages; some people have not been able to connect for days. Skype has announced that they are quickly creating new mega-supernodes to cope with the demand on their system. They have also revealed 5 million people are back up and running with more ‘gradually’ being added over the next few days.
Has Skype become the Grinch that stole Christmas? Have you experienced problems?
We will be sure to keep you up to date on Facebook and Twitter.
Via: Skype Blog
