I read an interesting article over at ZD Net by Mary Jo Foley in which she stated that Microsoft was offering toll free support and in which she provided a toll free phone number. The toll-free call-in number in the U.S. for Vista SP1 help is (866)-234-6020. Interesting. Was Microsoft really going to cover the cost of free support?

Not really. It all depends what kind of a computer you have. If you bought a retail system [which I would guess is most consumers], than you are advised to call guess who? You got it. Your OEM provides support and not Microsoft.

But if you built your own box, upgraded an OEM machine to a another version, say Home Premium to Ultimate and you paid for the upgrade, than Microsoft will talk to you for free. At least that is what the phone system related after pressing a host of different keys.

Also make sure you have your product key handy when an operator picks up your call.

Enjoy.

Comments welcome.

Tags: microsoft, free, phone, support, oem