System information

Skype Integration
Skype integration now exists with Asterisk through a commercial module from Digium
called Skype for Asterisk (SFA).
‡
The SFA module loads directly into Asterisk and al-
lows communication with all users on the Skype network directly by using an account
created on the Skype Manager. Previous methods were messy, requiring the use of a
Windows-based computer running another instance of Skype controlled via an API
(application programming interface) and directing media to a sound card and into
Asterisk via chan_oss or chan_alsa. Now, two methods exist: SFA and Skype Connect
(formerly known as Skype for SIP).
As an Asterisk module, Skype for Asterisk does have some features that Skype Connect
does not, including text chat, presence updates, and the ability to call a Skype user
directly rather an via SkypeIn number. Additionally, Skype for Asterisk utilizes Skype’s
encryption for calls, which provides security benefits without the need to use SRTP
(secure RTP) with SIP.
Installation of Skype for Asterisk
Since Skype for Asterisk is a commercial product, documentation for installing and
configuring the module is available from Digium directly. For the most up-to-date in-
stallation documentation and information about the Skype for Asterisk module, see
http://www.digium.com/en/products/software/skypeforasterisk.php.
You can download the modules from http://downloads.digium.com/pub/telephony/sky
peforasterisk, and the registration utility for registering commercial modules from Dig-
ium is available at http://downloads.digium.com/pub/register.
Using Skype for Asterisk
In this section we’ll explore the various ways we can utilize Skype from our dialplan,
such as sending calls to and receiving calls from users on the Skype network and ex-
changing messages with our Skype buddies. We’ll also show you how to implement a
clever dialplan that will make it easier to call your friends on the Skype network without
having to assign everyone an extension number.
Configuring chan_skype.conf
While the README file that comes with the Skype module helps to document
the chan_skype.conf configuration, and the sample chan_skype.conf file is well-
documented, it is worth showing a simple version of the configuration for the purposes
of documenting the usage of Skype from the dialplan.
‡ Skype for Asterisk currently retails for $66 per license, and includes a G.729 license. Each license permits
one simultaneous call.
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