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When you buy a gleaming, new personal computer and get it home, the first thing you want to do is to try it out and make it your own.
I have set up many computers over the years and it's my opinion that even when you know what you're letting yourself in for, the initial experience is a big hassle as more often than not you're forced to spend hours masquerading as a digital maintenance man wading through annoying and confusing chores.
I'm not even referring to the most time-consuming setup processes - transferring all your files and settings, reinstalling your favourite programs and learning the new features.
Instead, I'm talking about two main problems. One is the plethora of trial software and advertisements for products that must be cleared and uninstalled to make way for your own stuff. The second is the confusing welter of security programs you have to master and update.
That's where I come in!
Once your new PC is unpacked and powered up for the first time it's vital to install anti-virus software. New PC's tend to come with this preinstalled but it's often only for a trial period after which time you'll be asked to 'pay up' if you want to continue using it. I can advise on FREE alternatives, uninstall the anti-virus program that came preinstalled on your machine and replace it with an alternative of your choice.
Next it's time to set up your internet connection if it hasn't been set up already.
Once that's in place it's off to the World Wide Web to get the latest updates for your anti-virus program and Windows - no, it won't be up to date even though your machine may be brand new!
After that, it's time to lose the rubbish that the manufacturer of your new computer kindly preinstalled for you and regain the hard disk space that you've paid for.
Now connect up your hardware, e.g. printer, scanner, etc. and check everything works with the new system.
Then install your favourite software and finally it's time to transfer your files from your old computer to the new one.
That just leaves email to set up and your internet browser's home page to change to something sensible - I recommend Google.co.uk but you may have ideas of your own.
Did You Know?
You cannot get a virus from simply connecting to the Internet or by reading email. You must download or open a file/program to contract a virus.