How to Troubleshoot Windows Vista

Microsoft's new Vista operating system isn't for everyone, with it causing as many frustrating problems as it solves. But, for those of us that have already taken the plunge to Vista, there are a few things we can do to make the transition more pleasurable.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Make sure your PC meets Vista's minimum requirements. This should be a PC with at lest 512 megabytes of RAM (preferably one gigabyte), a decent processor (Core Duo or Dual Core although a high-speed Pentium will suffice), and at least 120 gigabytes of hard drive space.

2. Check and double check the results of the Vista analytical tool that is automatically run during the installation process. There could be several software and hardware conflicts that need to be dealt with that will impede or interfere with the operating system.

3. Use the Microsoft Knowledge Base to check for definitions of error codes that may come up when trying to install or run Vistaphobic programs. Also a quick check of a software or hardware manufacturer's website may produce a solution to the problem.

4. Check some of the more popular tech/geek message boards to see if anyone has had a similar problem. Very often, they offer solutions to even the most esoteric problems.

5. Call technical support for either the software or hardware that's causing the problem, or call Microsoft technical support. You can often get pretty good technical support online through their websites.

Resources

• Visit the Microsoft knowledgebase
• Visit this forum for help with most computer problems.
• Visit this forum for advice on everything you need to know about Microsoft Vista.