New Computer Setup

Skip the bloatware on first boot

Windows 11 asks if you want McAfee, Norton, Office trials. Decline all. You can install what you actually need later.

Sign in with a Microsoft account

Use the email + password you already have, or create a free one. Lets you re-set up the PC later if it dies.

Install Windows updates

Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates. Let it run for 20-30 minutes — these are 6+ months of pending updates the PC shipped without.

Set up Windows Hello (face or fingerprint unlock)

Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options. Replaces typing your password constantly.

Turn on automatic backup

Free OneDrive backup of Desktop, Documents, Pictures. Settings → Accounts → Windows backup. Worth doing day one.

Install your browser of choice

Edge is fine. Chrome, Firefox, or Brave are alternatives. Sign in with a Google or browser account so bookmarks and passwords sync from your old PC.

Uninstall the bloatware that did install

Settings → Apps → Installed apps. Anything labeled "trial" — uninstall.

Set up File Explorer to show extensions

View tab → "File name extensions" checkbox. Lets you see if .exe files are actually safe to open.

Install antivirus only if you need extras

Windows Defender (built-in) is plenty for most people. Skip Norton, McAfee, Kaspersky unless your work specifically requires one.

Plug in a backup external drive monthly

A $40 USB hard drive set up for File History gives you full image backup. Plug in once a month.