The average computer user can set up a new computer on their own but if setting up a new computer is intimidating, don’t shy away from asking for help.
Setting Up Your New Computer Yourself
If you have the time and some basic computer knowledge, it’s fairly simple to complete a full basic setup yourself. You’ll want to allow at least an hour or more to get your computer and its components updated and ready to use. Regardless of what type of computer you’ve purchased or what operating system (OS) you’re running, there are some basic things you’ll want to do.
- Be sure your computer is fully powered up.
- Verify you have a secured Internet connection available to complete the setup.
- Verify your system is running the latest OS. Boxed computers often sit on store shelves for months after manufacturing and before making their way into consumers’ homes. During that time, updates, fixed bugs, and new malware are found. Download updates, if necessary – check Updates & Security under Systems.
- Install a third-party antivirus such as Avast.
- Conduct your first system antivirus scan.
- Uninstall bloatware, or unnecessary apps, that are preinstalled on the computer such as game apps or streaming apps you will not use.
- Restart your computer to refresh and prompt changes you have made.
- Set up your default browser to your preferred browser (i.e., Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.).
- Connect peripherals/components such as a wireless keyboard and mouse, second monitor, printer, etc.
- Back up your system with an external hard drive or cloud storage
If you’re not feeling comfortable with setting up your new computer yourself, Geeks on Site can help you. Contact Geeks on Site today!
