Queries related to wireless networks made up the bulk of calls to BT Home's IT Support team this Christmas.

The majority of calls (nearly a third) concerned queries about connecting to wireless broadband.

But the internet service provider (ISP) said other common requests for support included, over 15 per cent of callers needing assistance with new software applications and 10 per cent wanting help with using new digital hardware. Another 10 per cent were experiencing difficulty with new operating systems for their computer.

Emma Sanderson, director of value added services at BT Retail, said: “With hi-tech gifts topping Christmas lists, a helping hand from an IT professional on Christmas Day is becoming more popular.

"This year we received a lot of calls from people struggling to connect to wireless broadband. People were obviously desperate to get their new laptops and handheld multimedia devices up and running on the big day.”

She added: “Nowadays if you want to enjoy the features on your mobile device or laptop you need to get online via a wireless connection to surf the net or get access to a Wifi network.”

BT has set up a free phone number (0800 876 6542) for its customers who are having trouble connecting to wireless broadband or are considering setting up a wireless network in the home. Alternatively they can go on line to the Home IT Support website.