How to set up a new computer

Let’s take a step back, to begin with. When ordering a new computer, we recommend you go with the most up-to-date Operating System available for it, for example, Windows 11, and because we’re focused on businesses, go for the Professional version of Windows.

So you have your new computer, what are the basics to get it set up and working well?

Check for updates and install the lot

The first point of all should be getting all the latest updates available for your new computer, and installing them. Keep going with this, repeatedly, until you’re fully up-to-date. You don’t want to start from a position of being out-of-date even though you have a new computer. And this myth about ‘turning updates off is good’, is just that, it’s a myth and rather silly.

Install essential apps and software

Whilst the essential apps are individual, we still think there are some basics that need to be on most computers, which are:

• Adobe PDF Reader
• Cyber Security/Anti-Virus protection software
• Microsoft Office (via 365) or Libre Office (free basic alternative)
• Cloud Storage for files, such as One Drive or Google Drive

Set a secure login password/PIN number

No matter your situation, you should use a secure password to access your computer. Having a secure password helps reduce your chances of a Cyber Security problem, and would stop most petty thieves in their tracks if they tried to use your computer.

Don’t use an administrator account as your day-to-day user account

Yes, you read that correctly. You shouldn’t set your user account for your computer, which is the one you use daily as an administrator. Not being an administrator, this would stop most Malware and dodgy software from running or being silently installed by the bad guys. You still have an administrator account, but you only use it when you need to install some new software or make a system change to the computer. Much more secure this way.

We hope that helps, and gives you some pointers and ideas for setting up new computers. You could of course let the experts do this for you 😉

Gavin Moorhouse is the owner of Lucid Computer Solutions, an IT Support Business based in Redditch. They can set up new computers wearing a blindfold whilst up a tree.