How to set up and customize your new computer

You’ve just purchased a brand-new Windows computer! Congratulations! Now it’s time to make it yours. Follow these tips to set up and customize your new computer so it looks and functions in the ways you love most.

New PC setup guide

While there are some choices to make when you set up your new computer, the good news is that nothing is overly complicated or difficult. The goal is for you and your new machine to be up and running as quickly as possible, which is why your new Windows device is designed to be incredibly user-friendly.

Let’s go over the various options during setup to customize your new PC:

Initial setup

When you first turn on your new device, you’ll be asked to choose a language, which makes sense if you hope to understand any of the prompts going forward. You’ll then be asked to choose your time zone and your keyboard layout of choice. These options can be changed at any time.

Next, you’ll be prompted to connect to your internet connection (via WiFi or hardwired Ethernet). If you’d like to skip the process of entering your password every time you connect, select “Connect automatically.” From here, your computer may go a little quiet because it’s scanning for any necessary software updates and patches. When this process is complete, you’ll be asked to give your new device a name so it can be identified on a local network. Remember, this is your computer; call it whatever you like; just make sure you’ll remember it.

Log in to your Microsoft account

Once your new PC has finished updating and patching, it’ll prompt you to log into your existing Microsoft account or create a new one. If you already have a Microsoft account, this can help sync files and data across devices. Logging in to your account will also automatically sign you into native applications like Microsoft Edge.

Lock in login methods

From here, you’ll be prompted to setup other login methods, which may depend on the type of computer you’ve recently unboxed. If it includes a biometric sensor, for instance, you may be prompted to set it up, which adds an additional layer of security to your device and its contents. You also have the option to log into your Windows device with a PIN as opposed to a password, which is specific to your computer as opposed to your Microsoft account. This PIN can also be used as a backup if biometric logins aren’t functioning as they should.

Sync apps

Logging into your Microsoft account gives you the option to sync apps and settings from other devices you use with your account. This is by no means a necessity, just a way to cut out a few extra steps as you customize your computer. If you’d rather start fresh, it’s absolutely an option. Simply select “Set up as new device” instead of porting over your settings when prompted.

Set privacy and permissions

The next few prompts are about privacy and permissions. You can zero in on your location, which can help with maps, weather, and local news. You’ll have the option to enable the Find my device service, which is useful if your PC is ever misplaced or stolen. You’ll also choose your diagnostic data settings, which includes information about how you’ll use your machine and what state it’s in in the event of a problem, so that it can be more readily repaired. This extra data is used to troubleshoot problems and improve overall user experience.

Add the software you need

While your new Windows device is loaded with useful software, there’s also the Microsoft Store, which is full of apps and add-ons for productivity, creativity, gaming, and more. Stream movies, store data, edit photos and videos – if you can imagine it, there’s probably a Windows 11 app for it. Try out social gaming apps like Discord or rewatch your favorite childhood movies on Disney+.

Once your computer is set up, you can also play with personalizing the look or your desktop, your reading experience, and more, so you can ensure your new device is exactly the way you want it.