Properly setting up that new computer for trouble-free enjoyment

Many of you will be getting or giving a new laptop, desktop or tablet for the holidays! Did you know that how you initially setup the device can in a big way determine the long-term enjoyment you receive from the computer?

Many don’t consider that the setup that all devices walk you through the first time you turn them on is not easily changed. In this article I will give you some things to consider before turning your new device on.

Naming the device is important considering most homes utilize home networks now. Giving your machine a proper descriptive name is more important than ever. Generally, if it is going to be used as the family computer I name it using the family last name like “Phillips-PC” or “Phillips-Laptop.” Designating the type of the device leaves you ready when adding other types of devices to your network. If the device is going to be more individually used, I use the person’s first name then designate the type of device. So it could be “James-Laptop.”

Anti-Virus - These should be carefully considered! All devices come with either McAfee or Norton/Symantec virus protection. From my experience these programs are over bloated and outdated. They both can slow a new computer down on average by 25 percent. Add to that they don’t protect your machine as good as many free programs on the market.

When going through the setup process you will be asked if you want to use the default anti-virus program. I recommend not using those programs. Instead make the first website you go to on the new device this: http://www.avast.com/free-antivirus-download. It is free for home use - download and install it.

Remove Junk Programs - Vendors load up new machines with so much software that many never use. After installing an anti-virus program, go to the control panel, then “Programs’’ and look through the list of programs and uninstall those that you know you will never use. Also uninstall the default anti-virus program McAfee or Norton that came with the computer (make sure you have installed another protection software first).

Here at Always On I T Service LLC, I have had the privilege of setting many new devices for my customers. Believe me, taking a few minutes to think these things out before pushing the power button the first time will save you grief later on. After all, remember our slogan: “Computers are Great…When they work!”