How Can I Mute the Ringing Sound in Skype?

Skype is a downloadable internet program that allows users to make and receive cheap or free calls all over the world. When placing or receiving a Skype call, there is a default ring tone that occurs. Occasionally, Skype experiences technical difficulties and the ring tone continues during the call. Fortunately, there are some steps that can be taken to remedy this problem.

Log into Skype and left-click on the "Tools" menu. Scroll down and select "Options." On the left side of that menu, select "Sounds" from the general category. This will call up a list of sounds associated with Skype. Click the box to the left of "ringtone" so it is left blank. Do the same for the box next to "Connecting call."

To silence all of the Skype sounds, select the button "Mute all sounds." When you have made your changes, click "Save" at the bottom right hand corner of the window.

These actions are all reversible, and the ringing sound can be restored by checking the box next to "ringtone" and "Connecting call," then clicking 'Save.'

This is just a temporary fix, and while it may mask the sound initially, Skype recommends eliminating the problem altogether by following the steps in the next section.

According to Skype moderators, the ongoing ringing noise was a temporary bug that was repaired after some system maintenance. If you still have this problem, check to see that you have the latest version of Skype. You can do that by clicking the "Download" tab at the top of the Skype website. This will take you to a page where you can see what the latest version of Skype is. At the beginning of 2010, Skype was running version 4.1. Double click the Skype icon on your desktop and left-click on the Help menu. Choose "About Skype" and you will be shown a screen that tells you what version you are currently running. If it is not current, follow the steps on the download page to upgrade to the most recent version.

If the problem persists even after the upgrade, get the other person to call you back. Sometimes this alone will stop the ongoing ring. Alternatively, try shutting down Skype and logging back in.