Getting desktop (not Metro) Skype for Windows 8

Solution 1:

The original installer can be found here.

• Download the setup file, right click on it and select Properties
• Select the Compatibility Tab
• Then check mark Run this program in Compatibility mode
• Click Apply and check if it works.

Solution 2:

You can download an offline installer here:

Skype Offline Installer for Windows

No need to run it in compatibility mode, or be connected when installing - works perfectly.

I would recommend removing the Metro version, however - which I find quite annoying to use as it logs in and out randomly and renders you uncontactable - presumably because Metro has absolute control over it and kills it when your PC runs out of RAM.

Solution 3:

At the top hover mouse over get skype and select skype for windows desktop. Sign in and download.