Q&A: Improving Call Quality After a Skype Update January 6, 2012, 5:49 am I upgraded Skype on my PC but this version sounds horrible. Should I try to go back to the older software? Before you back up to the previous version of the program, check your computer to make sure your system's drivers are all up to date. You should also confirm that no one else using your network is downloading huge files, streaming video or playing bandwidth-hogging games while you are trying to make your Skype calls. You should also re-check your computer's firewall settings. If you had a firewall rule for the older version of Skype, it may not be working properly with the newer version of the program. Skype has a page of instructions for those who use the built-in Windows Firewall program for Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7. If you are using a third-party firewall program, check its manual or help guide for creating a new entry for Skype. Quit Skype, add the new firewall settings and then restart Skype. Try a call to see if your audio quality has improved.