New computer setup checklist

Setting a new computer up well on day one saves trouble for years. Work through this list in order.

First hour

1. Sign in with the right account: your Microsoft or Apple account at home, or your work account for a business computer
2. Install all updates and restart, more than once if needed
3. Remove trial software and programs you'll never use
4. Check the built-in security is on (Windows Security, or the Mac's built-in protection) and the disk is encrypted (BitLocker or FileVault)
5. Set up a password manager and two-step sign-in on your main accounts

Then

• Move your files, e-mail and bookmarks from the old computer
• Install the programs you actually use, from their official sites or the app store
• Set up printers and any second screen
• Turn on backups straight away, and check the first one finishes

Before you get rid of the old one

Keep the old computer for a couple of weeks until you're sure nothing is missing, then wipe it properly before selling, donating or recycling it.

We set up new computers so they're ready to use, with everything from the old one moved across.

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