Getting a new PC is exciting — but pulling it out of the box and diving straight into your usual apps and browsing habits can leave you exposed to security risks, sluggish performance, and lost data down the line. A few simple steps early on can save you a lot of hassle later. In this article, we'll walk through exactly what to do, from your very first power-on to the final checks before you start using your PC day to day.

1) Initial Setup

When you first turn on the PC, you'll go through a setup process to apply your default settings. This includes selecting your language and keyboard layout. You may be prompted to create a Microsoft Account — this can be skipped, as mentioned in my previous article, "Cost Effective Computing." You'll also likely be asked to set up a Wi-Fi connection, though this can be skipped too if you don't have access at the time.

2) Updates

The second step is making sure everything is up to date. This is usually done through the Settings app, accessible via the Start menu. Updates typically include security patches, bug fixes, and system enhancements. Windows 11 has released well over 150 updates since its launch in October 2021 — usually at least one a month — so your PC will need updating to match the current, most efficient version of the software.

It's also worth installing dedicated driver support software, since Windows Update doesn't always handle this. For example, the Intel Driver & Support Assistant helps keep network and graphics card drivers current.

3) Security

Once your PC is updated, it's time to set up your security systems. This usually means opening the Windows Security app and making sure all its features are switched on. Many Windows PCs also come pre-loaded with third-party security software from providers like Norton, McAfee, or AVG. This isn't strictly necessary, as Windows' own built-in tool, Windows Defender, does much the same job. That said, additional security software can still be worth considering — such as a VPN, password manager, file encryption, or browser security extension, especially if you want extra features like identity theft monitoring or parental controls.

You'll also need to set up a form of authentication, such as a password, PIN, or biometrics (face or fingerprint scanning):

  • PINs should be 5–6 digits, avoid sequential numbers, and avoid anything predictable like personal dates.
  • Passwords should be at least 12 characters long, using a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols — longer passphrases are increasingly recommended over shorter complex passwords.
  • Biometrics are generally secure and tested against simple tricks like photos, but their reliability depends on the hardware staying in good condition, so it's worth having a backup login method too.

4) Back Up Before You Need To

Before you get too far into personalising and installing apps, it's worth setting up a backup system. On Windows, this means configuring File History. You can also connect a cloud storage service like OneDrive, iCloud, or Google Drive if you plan to use one. Setting this up now — rather than after you've lost something important — will save you a lot of stress down the line.

5) Personalising

Now it's time to make the PC match your habits and preferences. Start by adjusting the resolution, refresh rate, and brightness to suit your needs. Many PCs let you schedule automatic dimming or a "night mode" past a certain time. It's also worth configuring your power settings — choosing between best power efficiency or best performance, or setting a time for the computer to sleep after a period of inactivity.

This is also the point to install any apps you plan to use. That might include:

  • Browsers like Google Chrome or Opera
  • Development tools like PyCharm or Visual Studio
  • Steam for gaming
  • Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing
  • Entertainment apps like Netflix and Spotify

If you'd rather avoid the cost of Microsoft Office, there are ways around it — see my Cost Effective Computing article for alternatives.

Once your apps are installed, make sure your default apps are set correctly. This ensures that when you open a document, send an email, or click a link, the right app launches automatically.

6) Final Checks

With everything set up, it's important to do a final check to make sure it all works properly:

  • Confirm your Wi-Fi connection is stable and running smoothly
  • Test your webcam, microphone, and speakers
  • Make sure any transferred data or files have moved across correctly
  • Double check your backup and security settings are active
Once you're confident everything is working, you can start connecting additional peripherals — printers, extra monitors, and anything else you need to complete your setup.

Conclusion

Setting up a new PC properly takes a little time up front, but it pays off in the long run. Getting your updates, security and backups sorted early means fewer headaches later — whether that's a missed security patch, a lost file, or a slow, cluttered system. Take it step by step, and your PC will be ready to serve you reliably for years to come.