Important first steps for a new computer or laptop

If you are expecting Santa to pop by and leave you a brand new computer this Christmas, we know you’ll probably want to start using it straight away.

But as tempting as that is, there are really a few things you need to do before you start streaming videos, logging on to Facebook, checking your mail and installing your video games. If you want to make sure you stay safe and you don’t expose your brand new computer to cyber-nasties, follow some simple steps first.

When you turn on a new computer, you need to setup the operating system first. This isn’t as complicated as it sounds. In fact it is really easy. For example, with Windows, this means just answering some really simple questions like your name and your language. Then you’ll presumably want to connect it you your Wi-Fi, so you’ll need to know your network ID and your password to connect.

From there, we recommend doing the following things.

Update the OS

Your computer may be brand new, but chances are the software on there will still need updating. Microsoft for example are releasing updates and fixes every month and the chances are high that you’re computer has been in the distribution and in the shop for longer than that, so when you turn it on, make sure you let it update.

This is to make sure that all those pesky security vulnerabilities are all fixed up before you begin using it. For Windows 10, just hit the start button and type “Window Update” and follow the on-screen instructions. For Windows 8.1, on the Start Screen just slide your cursor to the top right to make the Search box appear and type in the same thing. For Apple OS, open the Apple Mac store app and click Updates on the toolbar.

Update other software

The same applies to other software running on the computer as well, like Flash. Most pre-installed apps will update the same time as the operating system updates, but if you’re running third party software, it should prompt you to update it when you open it up.

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Decide on and implement an Anti-Virus solution

You need to decide on how you’re approaching your security in terms of anti-virus to make sure you’re protected. For those Windows users, you have a few choices. Chances are that you’re manufacturer has bundled some trial version of a security program on your computer (like McAfee.)

This doesn’t last long though, usually for a month, and many people don’t like the software that gets bundled on there or want something different. If you don’t have an anti-virus software bundled on there, make sure Windows Defender is turned on (just type in “Defender” in same search box as you typed “Windows Updates” in). If you do have a trial anti-virus installed but don’t want it, uninstall it and make sure Windows Defender is turned on.

If you want another full security program, you can visit their website to download it (and pay if it’s premium.) You can choose between free antivirus software or premium software, whatever best suits your needs.

Make sure you have a firewall

Again, Windows users have an inbuilt firewall, and unless you choose to use a security program that has one included, make sure Windows Firewall is turned on (type in Firewall into search box and follow the on-screen instructions.)

For Apple users, the answer is a little less clear cut. OS X does come with a firewall, but it’ll probably be turned off by default. This is down to how OS X works, and for most users, a firewall isn’t needed. If you install programs you don’t trust (which you shouldn’t do anyway) or want to restrict or at least monitor traffic coming to and from a particular application you install (most users won’t need to) then most experts generally recommend leaving the firewall turned off.

Uninstall “bloatware”

This step is perhaps more optional than the rest, since it doesn’t really make your computer more secure, but we still recommend it.

Most manufacturers install programs on your computer that you probably don’t really need (bloatware), especially on Windows computers. This can include the aforementioned trial versions of antivirus software, but also messaging apps you won’t use, DVD burning software you won’t need, Internet browser toolbars that are mostly useless, or third party software you just don’t really want like music players (you’ll already have one.)

These can slow down a computer and take up space on your hard drive. You could say that each one could potentially present a security risk to your computer as well, albeit a small one. If you don’t need it, uninstall it (but don’t uninstall programs you’re not sure you will need or not, and if in doubt, ask!)

For Windows users, go to the control panel and select Programs and Features to see a list of installed programs and you can select which ones you don’t want.