Byrne said the Skype IPO plans, along with a separate announcement last week that the founders of Web recommendation site StumbleUpon for an undisclosed sum, could be some smart spring cleaning that will help bring the online auction house's bnusiness into line.

"I think it's about keeping your eyes on the core product," said Byrne. "I think if it helps them clarify who they are as a company and helps them get some of their money back, it's good for them. And it's good for Skype not to be distracted by eBay."

He added that Skype is in a good position and this move shouldn't hurt them.

"Skype is doing very well on its own," said Byrne, adding that the company is attracting new subscribers and revenue. "It's still a disruptive force in the telecom industry."

Elroy Jopling, a research director at Gartner, Inc., said the IPO could be a positive move for Skype - if a buyer doesn't scoop the company up first.