How to Setup a Windows PC: A Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up and Configuring a New or Existing Computer

by Jeff Blum

We spend so much of our digital lives using a computer but often don't give enough attention to its setup and configuration. Which is a missed opportunity since doing it well can supercharge your productivity and safeguard your important data. The topics discussed in this book not only apply to a new computer, but can be used to verify that your current computer is optimized for productivity and security as well.

The steps I discuss include everything you need to know and do to get the best Windows user experience.

The book is written mostly as a step-by-step guide, covering the following steps:

Step 0: Pre-Setup
Step 1: Setup Computer and Create Administrator and Guest Accounts
Step 2: Make a System Image
Step 3: Install Antivirus Software
Step 4: Remove Crapware
Step 5: Update the Operating System (OS)
Step 6: Import Data Files from Your Old Computer
Step 7: Install Printers and Other Peripherals
Step 8: Install and Configure Browser(s) of Choice
Step 9: Install Your Preferred Software
Step 10: Perform a Full Security Scan and run CCleaner
Step 11: Create a System Backup
Step 12: Organize, Protect, Sync and Backup Your Data
Step 13: Working More Productively with Your Computer
Step 14: Protect Your Computer against Loss or Theft
Step 15: Use and Look for Problems
Step 16: Care for Your Laptop
Step 17: Prepare Your Old Computer

Scattered throughout the book you will find hundreds of links to useful resources. I have further added appendices about caring for your computer, putting your computer to use when idle, and basic troubleshooting ideas.

Genres: Computers

116 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 7, 2014

About the author

Jeff Blum specializes in the curation of online information focused on the fields of business, travel, language, productivity, and technology. You can find more about him and his books at liseries.com.