Playing games on your Windows 11 PC should be a smooth experience. However, some users face an issue where Skype unexpectedly kicks them out of their game. This can be frustrating, especially during important gameplay moments.
This article will guide you through simple and effective steps to fix this problem. Each solution is explained clearly so that even beginners can follow along without trouble.
By following these steps, you can enjoy your games without Skype interruptions. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into detailed fixes.
Understanding why Skype might interfere with your game can save time and prevent future issues.
Quick Note: What to Check Before Fixing
- Check System Updates: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes, outdated software causes conflicts.
- Close Background Apps: Other apps running alongside Skype and your game might cause performance issues.
- Verify Game and Skype Versions: Using the latest versions ensures compatibility and fewer bugs.
- Check Your Internet Connection: A stable network is crucial since Skype relies on the internet.
Step 1: Adjust Skype Settings to Stop It From Interrupting Games
Skype has settings that can affect how it behaves while you are gaming. Adjusting these can prevent it from kicking you out.
- Open Skype on your Windows 11 PC.
- Click on your profile picture in the top-left corner.
- Select Settings from the dropdown menu.
- Go to the Audio & Video section.
- Ensure that the microphone and speakers are set to the correct devices to avoid audio conflicts.
- Next, go to the General tab.
- Disable any options related to notifications or alerts while sharing your screen or during calls.
Why this helps: Notifications and audio conflicts from Skype can cause your game to lose focus or crash. Disabling unnecessary alerts keeps your gameplay uninterrupted.
Step 2: Run Both Skype and Your Game as Administrator
Running apps as an administrator gives them higher priority and access to system resources, which can reduce conflicts.
- Close Skype and your game completely.
- Right-click the Skype shortcut or executable file.
- Select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box that says Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Repeat these steps for your game executable.
- Restart both apps and check if the issue persists.
Why this helps: Administrator privileges prevent Windows from limiting app performance or access, reducing crashes or forced closures.
Step 3: Disable Game Mode and Focus Assist Temporarily
Windows 11 has features like Game Mode and Focus Assist designed to enhance gaming, but sometimes they can backfire and cause app conflicts.
- Open the Settings app by pressing
Win + I. - Go to Gaming > Game Mode.
- Toggle off Game Mode.
- Next, go back to Settings and select System > Focus Assist.
- Set Focus Assist to Off.
- Try launching Skype and your game again.
Why this helps: These features sometimes interfere with app notifications and resource management, causing apps to behave unexpectedly.
Step 4: Update or Reinstall Skype and Your Game
Outdated or corrupted files can cause Skype to kick you out of games. Updating or reinstalling ensures you have fresh, compatible versions.
To update Skype:
- Open Microsoft Store.
- Search for Skype.
- If an update is available, click Update.
To reinstall Skype:
- Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Skype and click Uninstall.
- After uninstalling, reinstall Skype from the Microsoft Store.
Repeat similar steps for your game via the platform you installed it on (Steam, Microsoft Store, etc.).
Why this helps: Updates fix bugs and improve app stability, while reinstalling removes corrupted files that cause crashes.
Step 5: Modify Skype’s Background Apps Permissions
Windows 11 allows you to control which apps can run in the background. Limiting Skype’s background activity can prevent it from interrupting your gaming session.
- Open Settings by pressing
Win + I. - Go to Apps > Installed apps.
- Scroll to Skype and click the three dots next to it, then select Advanced options.
- Scroll down to the Background apps permissions section.
- Select Never to prevent Skype from running in the background.
- Restart your computer and test your game again.
Why this helps: Preventing Skype from running in the background stops it from taking system resources or triggering interruptions while gaming.
Step 6: Check for Conflicting Software
Sometimes other software like antivirus or third-party apps can interfere with Skype and your games.
- Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall and see if the problem persists.
- If disabling helps, add Skype and your game as exceptions in your security software.
- Check if any other communication apps are running and close them.
Why this helps: Some security apps mistakenly block or prioritize apps, causing interruptions during gameplay.
FAQs
Why does Skype kick me out of my game?
Skype may be causing system resource conflicts, audio device clashes, or interfering with notifications which disrupt your game.
Can running Skype and my game as administrator fix the issue?
Yes. Running both apps with administrator rights gives them necessary permissions to function smoothly without conflicts.
Should I disable Game Mode on Windows 11?
Sometimes disabling Game Mode can help if it interferes with app performance, but generally, it is designed to improve gaming.
Will updating Skype and my game help?
Absolutely. Updates often include bug fixes and compatibility improvements that resolve many issues.
Is it safe to disable Skype’s background activity?
Yes, but you won’t receive calls or messages while Skype is closed. It helps prevent interruptions during gaming but limits Skype’s background functionality.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and Skype still kicks you out of your game, consider these final options:
- Contact Skype Support: Visit Skype Support for personalized help.
- Check Game Forums: Sometimes the issue is common for your specific game and developers may provide fixes.
- Create a New Windows User Profile: Corrupted user profiles can cause unexpected behavior.
- System Restore: Roll back your system to a point before the issue started, if possible.
Conclusion
Skype kicking you out of games on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable with some simple adjustments. Start by tweaking Skype settings and running apps as administrator. Then, check Windows features like Game Mode, update your apps, and manage background permissions.
By following these step-by-step solutions, you can minimize interruptions and enjoy a smoother gaming experience. Remember to keep your software updated and your system optimized, and don’t hesitate to seek official support if needed.