FTC lets Microsoft proceed with purchase of Skype

The Federal Trade Commission is leaving the software giant Microsoft Corp. to make its largest deal ever, an offer of 8.5 billion for the web chat and Skype call service.

The FTC announced Friday that it had completed its review of the acquisition so it can proceed if the Department of Justice also approved. The two agencies should review any agreement worth more than $ 65.2 million, according to the website of the FTC.

Microsoft already has a service called Skype-like Windows Live. But Skype enables users to different types of computers and telephones to discuss directly. The case could let Microsoft sell more digital advertising and provide most popular tools for business conference.

Microsoft is offering more than three times the value of Skype 18 months ago when eBay Inc. sold a two-thirds of the fairness of the private company Silver Lake.