How to Update Skype in Ubuntu
By Allen Bethea
Linux versions of popular Microsoft software are rare. However, Microsoft does provide a version of Skype that you can install and use on your company's Ubuntu Linux PCs. If you have an older version of Skype already installed, you can update it with a more recent release available for download on Skype's website. The method you use to accomplish this depends upon whether Skype was originally installed as a DEB package or an extracted, "tar.gz" or tarball archive.
Updating Skype Debian Packages
Click the "Download" link on the Skype.com home page.
Click the "Choose your distribution" drop-down list. Select the Skype package for the most recent LTS version of Ubuntu. The file download should begin.
Launch the Ubuntu Software Center.
Type "Skype" in the search box, then press the "Enter" key.
Select "Skype" in the search results list, then click the "Remove" button.
Enter your password, then press "Enter."
Launch the File Manager, then locate the Skype package you downloaded.
Right-click the filename, select "Open with Ubuntu Software Center," then press the "Enter" key.
Click the "Install" button for Skype.
Type in your password, then press "Enter" to complete the update.
Updating Skype Installed by Tarball
Click the "Download" link on the Skype.com home page.
Click the "Choose your distribution" drop-down list. Select the Skype package for the most recent LTS version of Ubuntu.
Locate the directory for Skype within your Home folder using the File Manager.
Right-click the folder, then move it to the Trash.
Locate the Skype package you downloaded.
Right-click the filename, select "Open with Ubuntu Software Center," then press the "Enter" key.
Click the "Install" button for Skype.
Type in your password, then press the "Enter" key to install the new version of Skype.
Tips
Use the GDebi package installation utility instead the Ubuntu Software Center to install your DEB packages. Like the Software Center and Synaptic, GDebi provides an easy to use, graphical user interface for the Linux "Apt" terminal command. GDebi, however, installs and removes packages much faster than the Software Center and is easier to use for single packages than Synaptic. GDebi is available in the Ubuntu Software Center.
Warnings
Don't use the Linux DPKG terminal command to install or remove Debian packages on Ubuntu. DPKG only installs or removes the package names you give it at the shell prompt. It does it look for, download or install any system dependencies programs like Skype may need to function properly.
References
Writer Bio
Allen Bethea has written articles on programming, web design,operating systems and computer hardware since 2002. He holds a Bachelor of Science from UNC-Chapel Hill and AAS degrees in office technology, mechanical engineering/drafting and internet technology. Allen has extensive experience with desktop and system software for both Windows and Linux operating systems.