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Providers of computer repair in Fort Lauderdale have received inordinate numbers of calls and visits in recent months regarding Microsoft's new operating system, Vista.

According to a recent survey, more than 75 percent of users expected some sort of problem with Vista and its the new user interface.

The top three consumer complaints regarding Vista since its release, as reported by Fort Lauderdale computer services, include:

1. Personal device incompatibility. Broward computer service technicians report that people who purchase computers with Vista installed or who upgrade their current system cannot connect their personal devices - printers, MP3 players, cameras, etc. - due to outdated drivers.
2. Navigation problems. The new Aero user interface is causing confusion among consumers trying to locate files or operate basic functionality due to people being accustomed to using the interface in Windows 2000 or XP.
3. Home networking. Individuals who set up a home network using a Vista-enabled computer frequently complain to Broward County network support providers that they cannot view other computers in the network running Windows XP.

There's no doubt that Vista has new features that are ahead of the curve in terms of usability and functionality. However, any switch in operating systems will initially cause confusion and problems for end-users.

Thus, Fort Lauderdale computer repair organizations are encountering tons of consumers suffering from frustrating issues halting them from using their machines for their intended use, whether that is comprised of simply accessing e-mail or word processing.

Ft. Lauderdale computer services recommend these tips to people looking for help with the problems above.

• Call up the Control Panel on the computer and go to the aptly named "Welcome Center" where will find a tutorial - "What's New" - which, once viewed, will make the transition to the new interface easier.
• To make sure XP computers can be viewed within a home network powered from a Vista PC, computer repair experts recommend disabling (for now) third party firewall software on the XP computer, and disable the "guest" account on the XP computer.
• Before you upgrade to Vista or purchase a new computer with Vista already installed, go to your device manufacturer's site(s) to ensure that there are drivers available for Vista. Many manufacturers offer free, easily obtained updated drivers that are indeed compatible.