Online help, searchable repositories, and articles can only take you so far. Sometimes, you just need to talk to an actual person to get help with your computer problem. You can get professional technical help from Microsoft by phone, e-mail, and online chat.
First, you’ll need your product key
Before you contact technical support, make sure you have the product ID (often called the product key) for the program or programs that you have questions about.
Most computers purchased from original equipment manufacturers (such as Dell or Gateway) come with the operating system and other basic software preinstalled. Usually, the product key for the operating system is located on a sticker on the outside of the computer.
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For most other Microsoft software products, as well as retail versions of Microsoft operating systems, the product key is located on the software packaging.
Always keep the product keys for your software programs in a safe place. By providing the relevant product key when you contact Help and Support, Microsoft can determine if you’re entitled to receive any free technical support. Many Microsoft products that you purchase come with two free customer support requests. Otherwise, there is usually a fee associated with technical support service.
Note: If your computer came with Windows or other Microsoft software preinstalled, you will need to contact the computer manufacturer for assistance rather than Microsoft.
Now, you’re ready to talk to a real person
·E-mail support. Visit Microsoft Help and Support to send e-mail to customer support to get help with your problem. On the Help and Support page, select the Microsoft product you’re having trouble with to find out contact information and costs. You may be asked for the product key.
·Phone support. To speak to a technical support person on the phone, go to Microsoft Help and Support to find the right telephone number for your Microsoft product. Follow the prompts to direct your call to the right person based on your problem. You may be asked for your product key in order to determine if you are entitled to free support; otherwise, there will be a charge for the call. If the problem is related to PC security or to a malicious software issue, you can contact the PCSafety group at Microsoft at 1-866-PCSAFETY (1-866-727-2338). Calls made to this number are free.
·Chat support. Microsoft Help and Support also offers online chat support for help with your computer issues. The steps are similar to those for using e-mail–based support, only in this case you would be able to exchange instant messages with a technical support person rather than sending an e-mail. Again, you may be asked for your product key to determine whether you’re entitled to free technical support or whether you will have to pay a fee for the chat.
