Running Multiple Skype Instances on One Computer

Normally, Skype is designed to run only one instance per user on a computer. This means if you want to be logged into two different Skype accounts simultaneously, it's not straightforward. Skype stores its user data, including login information and chat history, in a specific directory.

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THE SOLUTION: SEPARATE DATA DIRECTORIES

The trick to running multiple Skype instances is to tell each instance to use a different data directory. This prevents them from conflicting with each other. For Linux users, Skype typically saves its data in a hidden directory named .Skype within your home folder (~).

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STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE (LINUX BASH TERMINAL)

This method involves using the command line to prepare a new data directory and then launch a second Skype instance pointing to it.

1. Open Your Terminal: Access your bash terminal (often by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T).

2. Navigate to Your Home Directory: Type cd and press Enter. This command changes your current directory to your home directory, where the .Skype folder is usually located.

3. Create a New Data Directory: You'll need a new, empty folder for the second Skype instance's data. For example, to create .Skype2, type: mkdir .Skype2 Press Enter.

4. Launch the Second Skype Session: Now, tell Skype to open using this new data directory. Type the following command and press Enter: skype --dbpath=~/.Skype2 & The & at the end means the command will run in the background, so you can continue using your terminal.