Setting Up a Computer: The Complete 2026 Basics Guide

By the Tech Bitz n PCs Team — Sydney's local source for PC hardware and advice Last updated: 26 July 2026

Getting a new computer is exciting — but a rushed setup is how people end up with a slow, cluttered, or unsecured PC within a month. Cybersecurity researchers estimate hundreds of thousands of new malware variants appear every single day, so getting your security settings right from the start matters more than ever.

The good news: setting up a new computer properly takes less than an hour if you follow the right order. Here's exactly how to do it.

1. Complete Windows Setup

When you boot your new PC for the first time, Windows will walk you through initial setup — this typically takes 10–15 minutes.

• Connect to Wi-Fi or Ethernet when prompted so Windows can check for critical updates during setup.
• Create your account. Use a Microsoft account if you want settings, files, and apps synced across devices, or a local account for a fully offline setup.
• Choose a strong password or PIN. Aim for at least 12 characters, or set up Windows Hello (fingerprint/face) if your PC supports it.
• Review privacy settings during setup — Windows will ask about location, diagnostics, and personalised ads. Turn off anything you don't need.

Most new PCs from Tech Bitz n PCs ship with Windows 11 pre-installed, so you likely won't need to worry about upgrading from Windows 10 — but if you do have a Windows 10 machine, see the note below.

2. Update Windows Immediately

Even a brand-new PC can be missing weeks or months of updates if it sat in a warehouse or on a shelf before reaching you.

To check for updates:

1. Open Settings (Windows key + I)
2. Go to Windows Update
3. Click Check for updates
4. Install everything offered, then restart when prompted
5. Repeat until it says "You're up to date" — some updates only appear after a restart

If your PC is still running Windows 10, note that Microsoft ended free support for Windows 10 in October 2025, so upgrading to Windows 11 (or enrolling in Extended Security Updates) is strongly recommended for ongoing security patches.

3. Set Up Your Browser

Windows ships with Microsoft Edge by default. It's a genuinely solid, fast, secure browser now — if you're happy with it, there's nothing more to do here.

If you prefer an alternative:

• Google Chrome — broadest extension support, syncs well across devices
• Mozilla Firefox — strong independent privacy track record and doesn't share Chrome's engine
• Brave — Chromium-based with built-in ad/tracker blocking out of the box

Download only from the official site for each browser to avoid bundled junk software.

4. Lock Down Your Security Settings

Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender) is enabled by default and is genuinely capable — independent lab tests consistently rate it as good as, or better than, many paid antivirus products for everyday users.

To confirm it's active:

1. Open Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security
2. Check Virus & threat protection shows "No action needed"
3. Turn on Ransomware protection (Controlled folder access) for an extra layer

If you want more control or extra features like a VPN or dark-web monitoring, browse our antivirus software range — but for most home users, Windows Security plus common sense is enough.

5. Remove Bloatware

Most pre-built PCs from major manufacturers come with trial software and promotional apps you didn't ask for.

To clean it up:

1. Type "Add or remove programs" into the Windows search bar and open it
2. Sort by Install date to spot everything added at the factory
3. Remove trial software, unfamiliar toolbars, and games like Candy Crush you don't want
4. Leave alone: drivers and utilities from your hardware maker (Intel, AMD, NVIDIA, ASUS, Gigabyte, etc.) — these keep your components running correctly

6. Install the Software You Actually Need

With the clutter gone, install what you'll actually use: Office or a free alternative like LibreOffice, messaging apps, creative tools, or games.

Two habits that save headaches later:

• Always choose Custom install over Express/Recommended when offered, so you can decline bundled extras
• Download software directly from the developer's official site, not from third-party "download" aggregators

7. Back Up Your New PC

Once everything's installed and configured, set up a backup — before you have anything to lose.

• Local backup: copy files to an external hard drive using Windows' built-in File History or Backup tool
• Cloud backup: OneDrive (built into Windows), Google Drive, or Dropbox for automatic, off-site protection
• Best practice: use both — a local backup for speed, a cloud backup in case your PC is lost, stolen, or damaged

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still need paid antivirus if I have Windows Security? For most home users, no — Windows Security provides strong, actively maintained protection at no extra cost. Paid antivirus mainly adds convenience features like VPNs or family controls rather than significantly better malware detection.

How long does setting up a new PC take from start to finish? Budget 45–60 minutes for Windows setup, updates, and basic configuration, plus extra time for installing your own software and backing up existing files if you're migrating from an old PC.

Should I upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11? Yes, if your PC meets the hardware requirements — Microsoft ended free Windows 10 support in October 2025, so Windows 11 is now the actively patched, actively supported option.

What's the single most important step people skip? Backing up before they need it. Set up your backup routine in the first week, not after a drive fails.

Whether you need external hardware, parts for an upgrade, or a whole new desktop or laptop, Tech Bitz n PCs is here to help. Contact us if you have any questions about our products.