Microsoft has enlisted the help of comedian Jerry Seinfeld to advertise its Vista operating system.

The New York comedian will be paid $10 million as part of a $300 million advertising campaign designed to boost sales of the operating system to businesses and consumers, according to the wall Street Journal.

Microsoft is seeking to take back the initiative from Apple, who’s ‘PC verses Mac’ adverts were very popular and inspired many imitators.

"They are not seen as cool," says Robert Passikoff, president of Brand Keys, a New York branding firm.

"Apple is cool. Can anyone even recall a Microsoft ad? No."

Manufacturers such as HP are reporting strong commercial resistance to Vista and developers too are shunning the operating system.

Microsoft chief executive Steve Ballmer sent an email to employees explaining the campaign.

"Now it's time to tell our story."

"In the weeks ahead, we'll launch a campaign to address any lingering doubts our customers may have about Windows Vista."

He said that later in the year the company will roll out "a more comprehensive effort to redefine the meaning and value of Windows for our customers."