What should be done initially on a new PC?
What should be done initially on a new PC?
Hello,
What actions should be taken on a brand-new PC first? These are the essential, irreversible steps that must be completed before installing programs or using it normally. Are these procedures necessary at this stage? Yes, for example, creating a full Macrium backup, enabling Microsoft Defender, and preparing a recovery drive are crucial.
You have a lot of experience, so I value your insights.
Thanks
Start by setting it up under your name. Test it for a while to understand its behavior, then check for any unused programs that could be removed. Windows 10 includes free and paid antivirus options; Defender is already configured for optimal security. Regular backups are always recommended from the start and throughout use. Meanwhile, ensure your system is updated to the latest version.
Some claims made by those sites are accurate, such as "installing the latest updates" and "setting up security," while actions like "installing your favorite browser" or "updating software on your computer" are common tasks you’ll handle regardless. These elements aren’t necessarily added just to lengthen the list. You have the flexibility to perform them at any time, outside the initial setup phase.
For new PCs that aren’t prebuilt, they won’t come with manufacturer bloatware, reducing potential issues later. Backing up your data is also recommended, though not essential before installation—just in case something goes wrong. Reinstalling Windows after an issue can restore your system to a clean state, matching the backup if you have one.
Applying and updating drivers is another important step. Overall, there’s little that should be ignored during setup.
I perform MEMTEST86 for several hours prior to any software installation. This confirms there are no defective RAM or other hardware problems, regardless of the operating system.
I update the BIOS before any software is installed.
I check all temperatures displayed in the BIOS.
I use just the disk I wish to connect as C: to the motherboard during the Windows setup.
What I perform at home and in the office.
1) keep all drivers updated
1a) add in card drivers or software such as sound cards, raid cards, capture cards, WiFi cards, etc.
2) update Windows
3) install the latest BIOS
4) for work, I prepare the necessary software and then perform a backup. I leave the HDD connected but unplugged. This process might take an hour or two to re-clone the drive from the backup and install the required files, compared to a full day of reinstalling everything.
4a) I usually reinstall my computer around the time of Christmas and New Year each year. After completing the first three steps during setup, I install the software I know will be needed, perform the clone, then every year I simply clone the backup to the main drive, proceed with steps 1, 2, and any updates, and finally re-clone the drive back to the HDD.
The very first step I take when installing a new W11 or W10 system is to remove the One Drive. In fact, when it arrives at the desktop I simply open "Control Panel"... After that, I usually proceed with the USB I had prepared along with the motherboard drivers and some utilities. Then I open "Device Manager" and verify that all my hardware is listed with a driver installed.
Once everything is set up, I often sit on another machine and repeatedly click the "Updates" button while browsing the Start Menu. This process generally finishes quickly if you use the latest installer for your operating system.
Next, I review and remove any applications I don’t need—such as Skype, Spotify, etc.—from the Start Menu. I also check privacy settings and decide which background processes are allowed to run. Frequently, I download installers from Ninite and install an ad blocker.
In general, around 80% of my installations happen on a system with a breadboard setup, so at that stage I usually mount the motherboard into its case, connect any extra drives or peripherals like wireless cards, and perform a final check to ensure everything functions correctly.
After that, depending on the hardware, I select suitable benchmark programs and let them run for an extended period. I begin with simple tests using CPU-Z to monitor temperatures, then move on to more demanding ones. For graphics performance, I often use Heaven and Furmark, especially Furmark, which gives a good estimate of speed and heat under certain resolutions.
Finally, I install a couple of games or applications and run them briefly to see how they perform.
Everything above except benchmark tests and memory tests (unless there's a problem) + i install Windows 10 Firewal Control (works on 11 too).
In addition to Windows own firewal, Firewal Control blocks incoming and outgoing traffic. There's a lot of apps and Windows features that absolutely have no reason to run at all, but they will run silently and they will try to use the internet connection.
I do not like processes i've never heard of and do not fully understand connecting to who knows where and sending who knows what data.
It can be a bit annoying sometimes because initial attempts by *any* process will be blocked. Helpfully, there are presets that can be quickly selected for those connections you trust. Like Windows update or drivers, or games, web browser, etc.
It's not for everyone, but it cuts a lot of bloatware and malware out.
Oh and for the love of all that is holy and still sane, replace the stock alert sound if you try using it! It's very annoying.
One other thing i have learned on this very forum is that web results can be removed from the Win 11 start menu search. web links are mixed with files you're searching for and they're confusing and annoying.
See here how to disable that feature of Win 11 -
https://pureinfotech.com/disable-search-...indows-11/
Are we discussing a brand new computer or a self-built one?
I’m not sure if there’s any specific step that must be taken first.
I think I’d start by running memtest once as my initial action.
If it’s a new PC, I’ll make sure the BIOS is up to date.
In case something goes wrong, you won’t have much work to do.
Later, I won’t update the BIOS unless it resolves an issue affecting me.
Personally, one of the first things I install is "Windows Classic Shell."
It really drives me crazy with the Windows tiles.
I usually follow these steps.
1. Disable the Windows System Automatic Timeout. It's one of the most bothersome aspects of Windows 10 and 11. This can cause significant trouble when installing software or transferring large data files. Simply adjust it through the registry and you're done.
2. I configure automatic logins for most of my frequently used programs and websites, so I only need to open them without entering a username and password.
3. Eliminate unnecessary software, and install all required utilities, drivers, and programs that my hardware requires to operate properly.
4. On desktops, I turn off all laptop power-saving features. They're not essential for a full desktop setup.