New Computer Tasks

Congrats!

Sooner or later, everyone gets a new computer. Once you bring it home, there are a few things you’ll need to do. Some of these tasks can be done automatically, but you can also handle them yourself. It doesn’t really matter in what order you do them, but I recommend starting with setting up your security software. Also, there may be other things you need to do that aren’t covered here.

New to Windows 11?

If you bought a new computer, it’s probably running Windows 11. This might take some getting used to because Microsoft tends to move things around or rename certain features. Don’t worry though—all the features you’re familiar with are still there, just in different places. If you don’t like the new look, you can still use the old control panel if you prefer it.

Security Software

Your computer won’t have security software installed, so you’ll need to reinstall your antivirus (like Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, or Malwarebytes). The easiest way to do this is by logging into your account on the software’s website. From there, you can download the program and install it on your computer.

Moving Your Files

Make sure you’ve transferred all your files from your old computer. These are usually stored in your user profile folder. Look for things like Documents, Desktop, Pictures, Videos, and Favorites. If you can’t find something, double-check before you get rid of your old computer.

Printers and Webcams

If you have a printer, you’ll need to install its software. Go to the manufacturer’s website (like HP, Brother, or Epson) and search for your printer model’s drivers. You can download and install the newest version of the software for free.

If you use a webcam, you’ll need to install the software for it too. Again, just visit the manufacturer’s website to find and download the necessary software for free.

Setting Up Your Email

If you use an online email service like Gmail, Outlook.com, or your internet provider’s email, you can skip this step. But if you use an email program like Outlook or Thunderbird, you’ll need to set it up. This can be a little tricky because you’ll need a few details, such as your email address, password, SMTP server, POP or IMAP settings, port numbers, and encryption type. It’s best to either copy this info from your old computer or look it up on your email provider’s website.

Web Browser

Microsoft Edge is pre-installed, but you may prefer anothe browser such as Chrome, Firefox, Brave or DuckDuckGo. Personally, I am starting to use Brave more often as it has built in ad blocking. DuckDuckGo is popular, but the DDG search results tend to suck. You will want to log into your web browser (like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox). This will restore your bookmarks and saved passwords, so you won’t lose them.

Other Softare

Install your other software. This may include programs like Quicken or other accounting software. Perhaps your favorite photo editor. I do recommend that you ONLY INSTALL WHAT YOU PLAN ON USING. Don't install things you're not likely to use any time soon. It's a good idea to keep your computer lean and mean for the best performance going forward.

Final Thoughts

Things might look a little different on your new computer. If you customized the look of Windows or Microsoft Office before, you’ll probably need to set those preferences up again to make things look and feel the way you like.