A new laptop is at its best the day you open it, and a deliberate first hour keeps it that way. The order matters: update the operating system before you install anything, strip out the bloatware, lock it down, and set up a backup before you trust it with anything important. Do these steps once and you avoid the slow, cluttered, vulnerable machine most people end up with a year later. Here is the checklist, for both Windows and Mac.
Do these first, in order
- Connect to Wi-Fi and run every update. A factory laptop often ships with software that is months old. Install OS and driver updates first so you start patched.
- Sign in with the right account. A Microsoft or Apple account enables backups, find-my-device, and settings sync. Use a strong, unique password.
- Remove bloatware. Uninstall trial antivirus, manufacturer "helper" apps, and games you did not ask for. They slow boot and nag for money.
- Turn on disk encryption. BitLocker on Windows, FileVault on Mac. If the laptop is lost or stolen, your files stay unreadable.
- Set up a backup. Turn on the built-in backup (File History or an image backup on Windows, Time Machine on Mac) to an external drive or cloud.
Windows vs Mac setup, side by side
| Step |
Windows |
macOS |
| Updates |
Settings > Windows Update |
System Settings > General > Software Update |
| Encryption |
BitLocker / Device encryption |
FileVault |
| Backup |
File History or image backup |
Time Machine |
| Bloatware |
Uninstall via Settings > Apps |
Rare, but remove trial apps |
| Find my device |
Find My Device |
Find My Mac |
Settings worth changing on day one
- Storage sense / optimised storage to keep the drive from filling silently.
- Privacy settings — turn off ad tracking and unnecessary telemetry.
- Power settings for the battery life you actually want, especially on a portable used unplugged.
- A password manager and two-factor authentication before you log into your accounts.
What to install
Keep it lean. A browser you trust, a password manager, your work tools, and that is often enough. Every extra background app costs boot time and battery. The built-in security in 2026 is good enough that most people do not need a separate paid antivirus suite.
Common mistakes
- Installing apps before updating. You inherit known vulnerabilities and sometimes have to redo installs after a big update.
- Skipping the backup. People set one up only after losing data. Do it before you need it.
- Keeping every trial. Trial antivirus and "PC optimisers" are the bloat that slows the machine you just bought.
- Reusing an old password on the new device login or your main account.
FAQ
What is the very first thing to do with a new laptop?
Connect to Wi-Fi and install all operating system and driver updates. A new machine often ships with outdated, unpatched software.
Do I need to remove pre-installed software?
On most Windows laptops, yes — trial antivirus and manufacturer add-ons slow it down. Macs ship with far less, but remove any trials you will not use.
Should I buy antivirus for a new laptop?
For most people the built-in protection is enough. See our guide on whether you need antivirus before paying for a suite.
How do I move my files from my old laptop?
Use a backup-and-restore, a cloud drive, or a direct transfer cable. Set up the new machine first, then bring your data over once it is updated and secured.
Where to go next
Do I need antivirus in 2026, how to back up your computer in 2026, and how to speed up Windows in 2026.