The 10-Step PC Setup Companion
Setting up a new PC can be a daunting task, especially if this is your first one. This list of 10 steps should provide some helpful guidance in getting your new system up and running.
Congratulations! You’re the new owner of a new PC laptop or desktop. This is a proud, technologically awesome day for you and yours. Even with all that excitement, however, you might be asking yourself a very intimidating question:
What happens now?
This is a completely normal question to ask. Although it would be great if a PC could spring to life and set up itself, that's not happening anytime soon. Instead of waiting for that futuristic moment to arrive, consider this guide. By following the 10 simple setup tips for new PCs contained within, you'll be feeling high-tech in no time. Let’s begin:
1. Location, location. Select a good location. Moving a desktop PC once it's up and running isn't fun, so choose an ideal spot first thing. Look for a space that's close to an outlet or allows for a surge-protected extension cord. There should be room in the back of the table or desk for cables that connect the monitor to the central processing unit (CPU). Think about ergonomics, too: Will you be comfortable in this location? Is the table or desk in a spot where glare from windows (the house kind) will leave you squinting? Adjust accordingly.
2. Inventory. Take everything out of the box, and put all the equipment and accessories in the same place. You'd be surprised how often people take a PC out, but leave keyboards behind or misplace the instruction manual. Double-check that you have every cable and part listed on the included PC manufacturer's sheet.
3. Unwrapped and cable-free. Unwrap all the parts, remove any protective plastic covers from the monitor and CPU, and arrange everything the way that you'd like. But don't try to connect any cables (yet).
4. OK, now the cables. Cables are trickier than they seem, even though manufacturers are very helpful with their color-coding systems. Follow the instructions in the user's manual, and take it slow. Connecting cables properly is an important step, and there's no need to rush through it. Make sure that peripherals like keyboard and mouse are plugged in properly as well.
5. Plug-n-play. Plug in the PC to the outlet or, even better, a power strip with a surge protector. This type of strip helps prevent damage to the CPU that might be caused by voltage spikes, lightning or other power interruptions.
6. Houston, we have power. Now you should be ready for takeoff. Push the power button on your CPU and then the power button on your monitor. This is always an exciting moment, so savor it!
7. Boots and names. With the system on for the first time, the PC will boot up with a few welcome screens. One of them is likely to ask you to input a profile or user account. This can be anything you like, from a nickname to your actual name. Remember: The computer will use this name moving forward, so carefully consider whether you really want to be called "PookyBear" for the next few years.
8. Family, friends and coworkers. At this point, you can also add other profiles for family members or friends, or leave that task for later.
9. Get connected. You may see a prompt for connecting to the Internet, and if so, go ahead and follow those steps. If a prompt doesn't appear, you can set up your Internet connection by using a Microsoft tool called Connect to the Internet wizard. For Windows 7, you can reach this tool by clicking the Start button, then Control Panel. In the search box, type network. Click on Network and Sharing Center, then Set up a new connection or network. Next, double-click on the option to Connect to the Internet, and you should be good to go.
10. Kick the tires. Get to know each other. Familiarize yourself with the different aspects of your new computer. Take a spin through the Control Panel we visited earlier to see what options are available to you. Your Windows PC also includes a few free preinstalled games and programs, so be sure to check those out as well. Above all, have fun!