How to Block Access to Skype on a Router

Learn how to block access to Skype on your router. Enhance productivity, manage bandwidth, and maintain network security with this step-by-step guide.

Skype is one of the most used social networks worldwide. It is a voice over IP application, that is, it allows you to make phone calls over the Internet. If you still do not have it, we will show you how to download or update Skype for free to the latest version for PC or cell phone

Skype is a free application or program that is available for computers and mobile devices to make calls, chat online, and video conference with people from anywhere in the world. Also, it is possible to send any kind of files to the added contacts. It is one of the most famous when making calls from my mobile for free

What are the advantages of using Skype?

  • Calls are free for any Skype user, no matter where in the world you are.
  • You can make calls to landlines and cell phones at an affordable price. It all depends on the plan that you like the most.
  • If you have credit in your account, you can make group video conferences and enjoy moments with family and friends. In case you don’t know, we will show you how to search and find groups in Skype step by step .
  • You can make group calls with up to 24 people at the same time and talk all you want, it’s free.
  • Messages can be sent to landlines or mobiles from your Skype account.
  • You can create a completely alternate phone number so that they can call as if you had one in the United States or anywhere else in the world.
  • It is available for the vast majority of software such as Linux, Windows, Mac OS X, and Pocket Out .
  • It works with all firewalls, NATs and routers and nothing has to be reconfigured.
  • Skype calls usually have high sound quality and that is a plus point for Skype, since most other applications the sound quality tends to be poor if you do not have a good connection.

How to Block Access to Skype on a Router. Blocking access to Skype or any specific application on a router generally involves a few steps.

These steps might slightly vary depending on your router’s model and firmware, but the general process is similar.

Here’s a tabular guide to help you understand the steps:

Step Description Details
1 Log into Router Access your router’s web interface by entering its IP address into a web browser. Typically, this is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1. Enter your username and password.
2 Locate Blocking Features Find the section in the router’s web interface where you can block services. This might be under “Parental Controls”, “Access Restrictions”, or “Firewall”.
3 Create a New Rule Select the option to create a new rule or access policy.
4 Define the Rule Name the rule (e.g., “Block Skype”).
5 Specify Blocking Criteria Set the criteria for blocking. This could involve specifying the ports used by Skype (e.g., 80, 443 for TCP and 3478-3481 for UDP) or blocking the application directly if your router supports this feature.
6 Schedule the Rule Set a schedule for the rule if you want to block access only at certain times.
7 Apply and Save Changes Save the changes. The router may need to restart for the changes to take effect.

Note:

  • Router Model Specifics: The exact menu names and options can differ based on your router’s brand and model. Consult the router’s manual for specific instructions.
  • Effectiveness: Blocking by ports or IP addresses may not be entirely effective as services like Skype can use different ports or methods to bypass such restrictions.
  • Firmware Differences: Some routers, especially those with third-party firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato, offer more advanced blocking features.

If you’re not familiar with your router’s settings or the process, it’s advisable to consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer’s customer support for guidance.

Skype has a configuration that allows to use ports 80 and 443 , which are used for web browsing in case the port that is supposed to be assigned is not available.

To be able to block Skype from your router, ports 80 and 443 must be disabled and the PTC port that comes by default when installing the application must be blocked.

Step 1: Open Skype

Skype should be opened and logged in, open the “Tools” menu and then click “Options.” Click the “Connection” category in the “Advanced” section . Make a note of the ports assigned for Skype and uncheck the “Use ports 80 and 443 as alternatives for incoming connections” box. Click on “Save.”

Step 2: Open your router

Open your router settings in your browser. In order to do so, open your web browser and type the IP address of your router in the address bar. Then enter the username and password.

Step 3: Security

Go to the “Security” option or any other similarly named utility. Click “Block Services” or “Block Ports.” You can choose how long Skype will be blocked. Then press “Add”.

Step 4: Select TCP

Select TCP as the protocol and enter the Skype port number in the “Start Port” and “End Port” fields. Then type a name for the blocking rule in the “Type of service” field and click “Add” to implement the rules and you’re done.

We hope this tutorial has been helpful to you. Remember to always follow the steps very well so that there are no failures when doing the process.

Blocking access to Skype on a router can bring numerous benefits, from enhanced productivity to improved security. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can easily block access to Skype and take control over its usage. Remember to test the configuration and ensure that Skype is inaccessible from devices connected to your network. Enjoy a distraction-free and secure internet environment!

by Abdullah Sam
I’m a teacher, researcher and writer. I write about study subjects to improve the learning of college and university students. I write top Quality study notes Mostly, Tech, Games, Education, And Solutions/Tips and Tricks. I am a person who helps students to acquire knowledge, competence or virtue.

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