Try an older version
 

https://jira.skype.com/browse/SCW-2416

http://www.oldapps.com/skype.php?old_skype=92

Thanks. Even v4.2 crashed, so it's obviously something with my computer. I removed a bunch of programs that I don't really use, and disabled some things in msconfig. I just reinstalled the current version, and it still crashes. I guess I'm just not meant to use Skype. Oh well.

Programs that run at startup are:
-igfxtray.exe, igfxpers.exe - for the Intel graphics card
-smax4pnp.exe - for the sound card
-msseces.exe - MS Security Essentials
-syntpenh.exe - the touchpad manager
-launcher.exe - the Thinkpad fingerprint scanner monitor app
-rundll32 - which runs the Bluetooth radio
-ctfmon.exe - something to do with Office
-MozyHome status - for Mozy, my backup.

And that's it.

edit: I turned on just about every service that would start, and Skype still won't run.

Did you try the portable version (unintstall first, etc)?

Yup, same problem.

Yeah, great ideas! Lets try this if will works well.

I think it's time to create an issue.

https://login.skype.com/login-form?p...67b91b9b33b6c6

Exact same problem, but 4.1.0.179 will work for me
 

Exact same problem, WinXP, precisely the same error message ever since I tried to install v5.x

Tried Skype support, they don't (seem to) care.

HOWEVER, as a workaround, I found that while version 4.2.0.187 would not work, that 4.1.0.179 *will work* which can be downloaded here: http://www.oldapps.com/skype.php?old_skype=86

Meantime gfunkdave, please please post here to let me know if you ever get version 5.x working! Thanks!