If you are going to buy a new computer , once you have more or less chosen the basis of the hardware configuration, you still have something else to do to optimize it and start taking full advantage of all its capabilities. Therefore, in this guide we will show you step by step how to begin the configuration to make it perfect to start enjoying your favorite software.

Index of contents

• What to do when you buy a new computer?
  • Read the instructions or quick guide carefully
  • BIOS/UEFI Settings
  • First boot
• Install the drivers
  • Security Do I need antivirus?
  • Essential software and data

If you are going to assemble the equipment yourself, you will be interested in reading this guide .

What to do when you buy a new computer?

When purchasing a new PC, whether a desktop or laptop, it is crucial to carry out a series of initial configurations and steps to optimize its performance, security and user experience. Here we recommend some important steps that you should follow to leave it in optimal conditions to start use:

Read the instructions or quick guide carefully

It is very important not to be guided by haste and start the new computer without first reading the guide or manual that it includes. The reason is that, in addition to having some peculiarities that you should know, it is also possible that it comes with certain things from the packaging that you should remove so that it works without problems. For example, some equipment may have plastic inside the tower, which will affect cooling, and could even melt with heat and render the board unusable. Therefore, make sure this is not the case, and if it is, remove all these protections that the manufacturer includes.

BIOS/UEFI Settings

When opening a new computer, it is essential to go into the BIOS/UEFI menu , something that many forget and directly use the default configuration, which is not a problem, but some interesting options may be disabled or you can adjust others for proper operation. more optimal, as well as improving security, etc.

1. Access the BIOS/UEFI.
2. Check the items in the different tabs. For example, technologies that are active (Secure Boot, Fast Boot, Intel VT-x/AMD-V, Intel XMP/AMD EXPO profiles, boot password, power options, date and time, etc.).
3. When finished, press F10 to save and exit, once done, it’s done.

First boot

During the first boot of your PC , if it already comes with an operating system ( otherwise you will have to install it as we explain here step by step ), the first thing is to follow the configuration wizard that will appear to configure things like:

• Language and region– Select the language and region you want to use during initial setup. This will affect the date format, time, currency and other aspects of the operating system.
• Internet connection:Connect to a Wi-Fi network or via an Ethernet cable to access the internet and download the latest updates. Additionally, some operating system settings may require a connection, such as accessing your Microsoft account.
• Software Updates– Download and install the latest operating system updates and hardware drivers to ensure the best performance and security.
• Personalization– Adjust screen settings, sounds, theme and other appearance options based on your preferences, user password, etc.

Install the drivers

The next and most important thing is to install the drivers for all the installed hardware and peripherals. The GPU drivers are especially important. It is likely that Windows has installed generic drivers, so you should install the official ones. To do this, go directly to the manufacturer’s official website, do not download drivers from third-party websites, since they may be infected with malware.

This ensures that all hardware will function as intended, with drivers and firmware in their latest version.

More information on how to install the drivers here

Security Do I need antivirus?

One of the most important things when you buy a new computer is to ensure that it has the appropriate protection measures, and that means installing at least one antivirus . Although Windows Defender can do its job well, it wouldn’t hurt to install a better antivirus. You can even install other additional cybersecurity measures, such as a VPN client app, firewall, etc.

Essential software and data

It’s time to back up your data from the old computer and transfer it to the new one so you have everything you need. You can use the cloud to copy and sync, as well as use a USB memory, etc. You have multiple options.

Once that process is completed, you should install the essential software , such as your favorite web browser, apps you need, media players, office software, email client, etc. This will change based on each user.

I also recommend, once you have everything to your liking and ready to start using, that you create a restore point . This way, in case the operating system fails, the data is corrupted, etc., you can always return to this point and thus have the system like the first day. To do this, follow these simple steps:

1. Open the “Run” dialog box by pressing the Windows + R keys on your keyboard.
2. Type “sysdm.cpl” in the dialog box without quotes and press Enter.
3. Select the “System Protection” tab in the window that opens.
4. Click “Create” in the “System Protection” section.
5. Enter a description for the restore point so you can identify it, such as First Day, or the date, etc.
6. Click “Create” again and the process will begin. You just have to wait for it to finish and that’s it.