Skype vs WebRTC: What are the differences?

Introduction

Skype and WebRTC are communication technologies that enable real-time communication over the internet. While they both allow users to communicate through audio and video calls, there are key differences between the two.

1. Architecture: Skype operates on a centralized architecture, where calls and messages are routed through Microsoft servers. On the other hand, WebRTC is based on a decentralized peer-to-peer architecture, enabling direct communication between users without the need for intermediate servers.

2. Platform Compatibility: Skype is a standalone application that requires users to install the Skype client on their devices to use the service. In contrast, WebRTC is a browser-based technology, integrated into web browsers, making it platform-independent and accessible via any browser without the need for additional software.

3. Privacy and Security: Skype offers end-to-end encryption for audio and video calls, ensuring privacy and security. However, WebRTC does not provide built-in encryption, and it is the responsibility of the developers to implement security measures.

4. Customization and Integration: Skype provides limited customization options and lacks flexibility for integration into other applications and platforms. On the other hand, WebRTC is an open-source technology that allows developers to customize and integrate communication features into their own applications, providing greater flexibility.

5. Scalability: Skype is designed to handle large-scale communication and can accommodate a high volume of users simultaneously. In contrast, WebRTC has limitations in terms of scalability, making it more suitable for smaller-scale deployments.

6. Network Requirements: Skype relies on a stable internet connection and can work even in challenging network conditions. However, WebRTC requires a relatively stable and high-quality network connection for optimal performance, which may cause issues in low-bandwidth or unreliable network environments.

In summary, Skype and WebRTC differ in their architecture, platform compatibility, privacy/security, customization/integration options, scalability, and network requirements.