So I finally figured out that Avast was blocking Skype (after a month of not understanding, color me newbie) and now that I have that down, I disabled the firewall because I couldn’t figure out how to tweak it allowing it some applications but not in others.
How is this done? Thank you.
Which Avast version (the interfaced changed very recently)?
I think it’s the one of the latest - where do I find the version?
Is your firewall network profile in puplic or private mode ?
https://support.avast.com/en-eu/article/Antivirus-Firewall-Application-Rules
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NOTE:The Network profiles control the settings which determine how strictly Firewall protects your PC.
Private: a lower level of security suitable for when your PC is connected to a trusted network such as your home or work network. This profile enables better connectivity, and permits all communication within the network.
Public: a higher level of security suitable for when your PC is connected to a public network such as in a cafe or airport. Because public networks present greater security risks, no incoming communication is permitted when this profile is set.
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Thank you. I suppose a Ph.d in computer programming is a bonus here - because I am totally over my head. Bars? When? Friends? In/Out of what? I get that I can click on the executable file for Skype to allow - but seriously do not understand all the rest. La sigh. But thank you very much for the assistance. Maybe will get a smart friend to help me with this.