A new computer can be like a powerful ally in your business operations. Whether it’s for increasing productivity, expediting day-to-day processes, or just making things more seamless, having an optimised PC can change your overall experience. Hence, it becomes crucial to ensure your new PC is configured appropriately to satisfy your business needs and preferences, keeping in mind the abundance of options available in the market.
This guide lists 11 steps to take before using your new computer and things you should remember during the transition process. By taking these actions, you can maximise the effectiveness of your new gadget and its overall potential.
Prerequisites you need to keep in mind before switching to a new computer
Before you begin setting up your new PC, it’s important to consider a few prerequisites:
- Backup your data: Make a backup of all of your important data, documents, and software licenses using an external hard drive or cloud storage service (Dropbox or Google Drive are certainly great options to keep your essential data secure).
- Move your important files: Think about transferring the most important information to your new device. There is a chance that the software that is pre-installed on your old computer might be redundant on your new one.
- Invest in good security software: Before connecting your new computer to the Internet, consider installing and using a strong anti-virus and anti-malware program. Remember that proactive protection is essential since business data is a prime target for cyberattacks.
- Get acquainted with the new operating system: Spend some time learning the fundamentals of the new operating system (OS) if you’re moving from one to another (for example, from Windows to macOS or vice versa).
Before using your new computer, do these 11 things step by step
It’s time to set up your new computer now that you’ve backed up your files, invested in good cybersecurity and are familiar with the new OS. Next are 11 steps to follow before using your computer for the first time.
1. Assess and unpack your new computer
Check your new computer carefully for any damage or missing parts. Double-check the device’s package for any paperwork or accessories that are included. Keep the warranty details, user manuals, and other paperwork for later use.
2. Power up and connect peripherals
Connect all necessary accessories, including the keyboard, mouse, monitor, and other devices. Verify that every connection is safe and oriented correctly. Turn on your computer and keep an eye on the initial bootup procedure. Appropriately respond to any prompts or preliminary setup instructions on the screen.
3. Install system updates
After connecting your computer to the Internet, install all available system updates, such as the most recent operating system updates, hardware component driver updates, and security patches. This guarantees the most safe and stable environment for you.
4. Create secure accounts
At this point, think about creating distinct user accounts for each employee and yourself. Assign each account the proper permissions to reduce the possibility of illegal access to private information.
5. Install the operating system
You will need to install an operating system if your new computer does not have one already installed.
- Windows: Use the Windows Media Creation tool to install the Windows media installation files on your new PC.
- macOS: Choose the System Settings and head towards the General option in the sidebar of the window that opens, then click Software Update & follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest macOS version on your device.
6. Upgrade your operating system
Check for and install any available updates on your operating system. This would ensure your new computer has the latest security patches to keep performance improvements running.
On your Windows system:
- Search for the Settings module and click on the “Check for updates” button; after selecting it, hit the Update & Security option, followed by clicking on the Windows Update.
- Install any available updates, such as security patches, feature upgrades, and driver updates.
- To ensure that the updates are applied properly, restart your computer after installing them.
On your macOS:
- Navigate to the General module > Go to the Software Update option under System Settings. Now look for any available updates: Click “Check Now” to check for available macOS upgrades. Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed.
- Install any updates that are available after downloading them.
- To ensure that the updates are applied properly, restart your Mac after installing them.
7. Find and eliminate bloatware
Evaluate the installed apps list and remove the unnecessary and irrelevant programs that might be using system resources more than they should or risking your system security. Bloatware removal can enhance system efficiency and provide your business apps with a cleaner workplace. To do this and maintain your new system operating at peak performance, you might want to use the following PC cleaning and optimisation programs:
Read in detail about these PC cleaner programs.
8. Install essential apps
Install the programs necessary for your company’s activities, such as accounting software, communication platforms, productivity tools, and applications tailored to your industry. Installing necessary applications should come first:
- You can consider installing Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge for browsers.
- Using Google Workspace and Microsoft Office are great options for Office suites.
- Consider installing applications that are helpful for your business needs.
9. Set up the system preferences
One of the most important steps in optimising your new computer for both personal and professional use is configuring the system settings. With the right setup, your computer will function effectively and meet your unique requirements. Here is a thorough explanation of how to change different system settings, complete with suggested tools and settings:
- Customise display settings: Modify the brightness and resolution of the screen. Use programs like f.lux to change the colour temperature to lessen eye strain.
- Configure power options: Choose the “High Performance” or “Balanced” settings as per your preference. For comprehensive battery management, think about utilising BatteryCare.
- Configure user accounts: For privacy and personalization, add user accounts. For more sophisticated account administration, use Local Users and Groups.
- Control startup initiatives: Turn off unused startup apps to speed up boot times. To start item management, use Autoruns.
- Modify the security configuration: Set up the firewall and antivirus software in Windows Security. Think about using Malwarebytes for further protection.
- Set up the network settings: Use the network icon to establish an Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection. To determine and maximize Wi-Fi coverage, use NetSpot.
- Customise notifications and focus assist: To reduce distractions during working hours, control app notifications and turn on Focus Assist.
- Configure accessibility features: Check the Ease of Access options for tools such as the magnifier and narrator.
10. Schedule security updates and measures to keep your safety intact
Setting up automatic updates for your antivirus and anti-malware programs is a good idea. This guarantees that your security procedures are resilient to the most recent attacks. Most security software lets you schedule updates so they happen at off-peak times and don’t interfere with your current tasks.
- Use built-in features: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update in Windows, then turn on automatic updates. Look for options to schedule updates in the settings menu of antivirus programs such as McAfee or Norton.
- Utilise third-party tools: To automate the update process, use third-party tools like Windows Task Scheduler or the scheduling capabilities included in your antivirus program
- Email threat management: Set up the spam filter in your email client to reduce unsolicited emails and change the sensitivity settings to include reliable senders to your safe list.
- Plan frequent security audits: The point of an audit is to find and fix any possible system weaknesses. These audits can assist in identifying unpatched vulnerabilities, out-of-date software, and incorrectly configured settings that could put your company in danger.
11. Perform extensive testing of all the elements
Test every new piece of software and hardware thoroughly. This covers essential apps (productivity software), network connectivity (Wi-Fi speed tests), and peripherals (printers, scanners). For instance, use CrystalDiskMark to test hard drive performance or PingPlotter for network diagnostics.
- Employee education on best practices for cybersecurity learning: Teach your staff how to spot phishing efforts and make secure passwords, among other cybersecurity best practices. Frequent training sessions can greatly lower the possibility that security breaches will result from human mistakes.
- Prompt resolutions: Remember to quickly resolve any issues found during testing to prevent business operations from being disrupted. Establish a ticketing system that makes it simple for staff members to submit problems and guarantees that they are monitored and promptly fixed.
The bottom line
By carefully following these procedures, you give your new computer a strong foundation and guarantee that it will function effectively and safely in your office setting. In addition to increasing productivity, setting up and configuring your system correctly protects your company’s data from potential dangers. Making the switch to a new computer can be intimidating, particularly for small business owners who are managing a lot of tasks. On the other hand, spending time on appropriate setup and configuration is a proactive step that eventually yields benefits. An organised system will certainly reduce the overall downtime, enhance overall system security and provide stabilized performance for your business operations.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How do I proceed if my recently purchased PC fails to power on?
A1: Verify that the power source is operational, check all connections, and try a different power outlet. If problems continue, speak with technical support.
Q2: How can I move my old computer’s files?
A2: Before moving files from your old computer to the new one, make a backup of them using an external hard drive or cloud storage services.
Q3: Is installing antivirus software required?
A3: To guard against malware and other online dangers that can jeopardize the security of your data, installing antivirus software is essential.
Q4: How frequently should my software be updated?
A4: To guarantee optimum speed and security, check for updates at least once a month or set up automatic updates.
Q5. Which backup options are advised for small enterprises?
A5: Consider utilizing external hard drives for local backups and cloud storage services for distant backups. Establish automated backup plans to guarantee consistent data security.
Q6: What should I do with my old PC?
A6: E-waste is a huge problem in Australia and around the world. You can recycle your old laptop or PC by checking in with your local council. Some councils schedule regular e-waste recycling days throughout the year where you can drop off your old electronic items. There are also some retail shops that will accept old electronic goods for recycling.
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