Is Skype safe for use on a business network? I cannot find a definitive answer. I can find a lot of personal opinions that are only backed up by Skype says it is secure. Skype says it does not contain spyware or adware. Skype says and Skype is FREE and many are ready to jump in to defend their use and acceptance of this program. They seem to be using it because they can without asking if they should.
Keeping a business network secure involves keeping the outside world out. Skype installs software on network computers to communicate directly with an external peer-to-peer network. This software is a closed source and as far as I can tell only a few Skype selected programmers have scrutinized it in Skype’s lab (not the actual download). Skype was written by the developers of Kazaa who had less than a stellar reputation. It is now owned by E-bay and we know they are somewhat novices in the field of networking and security.
So how can I get that warm fuzzy feeling that so many seem to have about Skype. Right now my senses are telling me that Skype poses a long term risk. I know I am not going to see a skull and crossbones on the screen after installation. It is what I don’t see that worries me. It is connecting to a peer-to-peer service. It is not having complete administrative control. It is not knowing what doors have been opened. I want to be open to products and services that can help my company be more profitable but everyone in the Skype community seems to be blinded by the fact that Skype works and Skype is FREE.
