You can set up your new laptop correctly straight away and install the most important programmes. We’ll show you which programmes you need and the best way to get your device up and running.
Setting up a new laptop: Removing unnecessary software
First, check which software has already been pre-installed. If you installed Windows yourself, skip this step. Otherwise, you’ll often find trial versions of programmes. These usually become chargeable after a trial period of 30 days and will no longer work.
- If you do not intend to use these tools in the long term, you should uninstall the trial versions straight away. This will save you the trouble of having to do so once the trial period has ended. Free antivirus scanners such as Avira offer similar protection to expensive pre-installed third-party programmes.
- Take care not to uninstall any specialised drivers. Separate drivers are often required for interfaces such as touchpads or touchscreens. You should therefore find out in advance about the programmes you are uninstalling.
- If you’re unsure whether you can uninstall a programme, create a system restore point beforehand. This will allow you to undo any changes after the process is complete.
Setting up essential programmes for your laptop
As a general rule, your laptop should have an anti-virus programme installed. It is particularly important to protect yourself against viruses when you are on the move and using networks other than your home network.
- Windows comes with Windows Defender, which does not guarantee complete protection. You can supplement this tool with free software. You can read more about the top-rated virus scanner in a separate article.
- As well as drivers for sound, graphics and the internet, communication programmes such as Skype or Microsoft Teams are useful.
- Depending on how security-critical your applications are on your laptop, you should set a secure password.
- You’ll also need a web browser such as Chrome or Firefox – the pre-installed Internet Explorer lacks many important features.
Configuring the laptop’s power settings and personalisation
Features such as backlit keys and maximum screen brightness drain your laptop’s battery. Depending on your device, you can change these settings using the key combination [Fn] + function key. The function you are changing is indicated by an icon on the function keys.
- You can find further power settings in the Control Panel. Under ‘System and Security -> “Power Options”’, you can customise how your computer behaves. There, for example, you can control whether the laptop goes into sleep mode when the lid is closed.
- In the system settings, you can also personalise features such as desktop backgrounds and a screensaver.
- Some programmes start automatically when the system boots up. You should disable any hidden autostart programmes so that your laptop starts up more quickly.
- Once you have configured all the settings, you should set up a regular backup. This will protect you against data loss.
