New Windows Computer Setup Checklist
When you get a new computer it can be difficult to know what to do first to get yourself going as quickly as possible. After many years of doing this professionally, I have compiled a checklist that anyone can use to get started.
Update Operating System
Run all updates on Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Account
Setup or login to Microsoft Account with username & password
User Account
Setup computer user account with name, password & PIN (if desired)
Additional User Accounts
Setup additional user accounts if needed
Wireless
Configure wireless network connection
Bloatware
Uninstall any unwanted software
Startup
Disable unnecessary startup programs in task manager
Privacy
Disable spy settings. Settings. Privacy. General.
Antivirus
Setup antivirus account such as Webroot, Norton or Avast
Install antivirus software and log in to license
Internet Browsers
Install browsers Google Chrome & Brave
Set Default Browser
Extensions: 1Password, Adblock, WOT
Export Browser Bookmarks & Favorites and import to new computer
PDF Documents
Download & install Adobe Reader
Anti-Malware Software
Download & install Malwarebytes
Alternatives: SuperAntiSpyware, Ad-Aware or Spyware Hunter
Taskbar
Add frequently used app icons on the Taskbar
Pin to Taskbar
Printers & Scanners
Install printer & scanner software
Add printers
Set default printer
Files from old computer
Login to OneDrive (if using)
Copy files to new computer: Contacts, Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Favorites, Music, Photos, Videos,
Video Players
Install VLC Player
Set as default
Office Software
Activate Microsoft Office with user account & password
Alternative: Open Office (free)
Mail
Microsoft Outlook login to email accounts
Or Login to email on browsers
Music
Download & install iTunes
Apple Devices
Download & install iCloud for Windows (if using iPhone or iPad)
Backup Devices / Software
Backblaze, Carbonite or OneDrive
Password manager
Install and setup 1Password (create a new account if needed)
Link to iPhones & iPads
Export/Import passwords from Chrome & Safari
Install browser extensions Safari, Chrome, Brave
Remote Support
Install remote support software: SplashTop SOS
Keep in dock
Additional Software
Install as needed: Dropbox, Zoom, Spotify, Sonos, Kindle, f.lux, 7-Zip, ClipClip, etc.
Restore Point
Create a system restore point
Backup Drive
Install local backup drive and turn on backups
Power Supply
Install uninterruptible power supply (UPS) such as APC or CyberPower