New Laptop Setup Checklist: 15 Things to Do First
A new laptop is exciting. Spending an hour setting it up properly makes it faster, safer and more enjoyable for years.
1. Sign in with a Microsoft account
This links your Windows licence, enables OneDrive and makes recovery easier.
2. Run all updates
Go to Settings → Windows Update and install everything, including optional driver updates. Restart and repeat until no more appear.
3. Update manufacturer software
Run your laptop brand's support app (Lenovo Vantage, MyASUS, HP Support Assistant, Dell SupportAssist) for BIOS and driver updates.
4. Remove bloatware
Uninstall trial software and apps you don't need from Settings → Apps. Keep drivers and manufacturer utilities you use.
5. Check Windows Security
Make sure everything shows a green tick. Turn on ransomware protection. See Windows Security guide.
6. Set up Windows Hello
Add a PIN and fingerprint or face. See Windows Hello.
7. Set up your browser
Install your preferred browser, sign in to sync bookmarks and passwords, and adjust privacy settings.
8. Password manager
Set one up now. See strong passwords.
9. Set up backups
Turn on OneDrive folder backup or File History to an external drive. See backup guide.
10. Create a restore point
Turn on System Restore and create a restore point. See System Restore.
11. Battery care
Turn on your manufacturer's charge limit if you mostly use the laptop plugged in. See battery tips.
12. Trim startup apps
In Task Manager → Startup apps, disable unnecessary items.
13. Personalise
Set dark mode, Night Light, taskbar layout and display scaling. See customising Windows 11.
14. Install essential apps only
Download apps from official websites or the Microsoft Store. Avoid "download sites" that bundle extra software.
15. Register warranty and note details
Register the warranty and save the serial number, receipt and model number somewhere safe.
Privacy settings to review on a new Windows laptop
During setup, Windows asks several privacy questions. You can review them later in Settings → Privacy & security:
- General: turn off personalised ads using advertising ID, and suggested content in Settings if you prefer.
- Diagnostics & feedback: choose required diagnostic data only.
- Location: allow only apps that need it.
- Camera and microphone: review app access.
- Activity history: turn off if you don't use timeline features.
Essential free apps for most users
| Need | Free option |
|---|---|
| Office documents | Microsoft 365 web apps, Google Docs, LibreOffice |
| PDF reading | Microsoft Edge (built-in) |
| Media playback | Media Player (built-in), VLC |
| File compression | Built-in ZIP, 7-Zip |
| Screenshots | Snipping Tool (built-in) |
| Password manager | Browser manager, Bitwarden |
Download only from official websites or the Microsoft Store to avoid bundled adware.
Protect your investment
Use a padded bag, avoid eating over the keyboard, keep liquids away, and consider accidental damage insurance if you carry the laptop daily.
Frequently asked questions
Should I buy antivirus for a new laptop?
For most people, Windows Security is enough. See do you need antivirus.
Should I fully drain the battery first?
No, that's an old myth. Charge and use it normally.
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