Always Do THIS with a New Laptop

Introduction

Setting up a new laptop can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. This guide will provide you with essential steps to optimize your new Windows 10 or Windows 11 laptop for better performance and battery life right from the start. By following these tips, you can ensure your laptop runs smoothly and meets your needs.

Step 1: Install Updates

• Check for Windows Updates:
  • Open the Settings app.
  • Navigate to Update & Security.
  • Click on Windows Update and select Check for updates.
• Install Drivers:
  • Visit the laptop manufacturer’s website.
  • Download and install the latest drivers for hardware components.

Step 2: Understand Bloatware

• Identify Pre-installed Software:
  • Check for unnecessary applications that come pre-installed.
• Uninstall Bloatware:
  • Go to Settings > Apps.
  • Uninstall any software you do not need to free up space and improve performance.

Step 3: Optimize Display Settings

• Adjust Brightness and Color:
  • Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
  • Adjust brightness and color settings for optimal viewing.
• Use Night Light:
  • Enable the Night light feature to reduce eye strain in low-light conditions.

Step 4: Configure MUX Settings (for Gaming Laptops)

• Check MUX Switch:
  • If your laptop has a MUX (Multiplexer) switch, ensure it is set to dedicated GPU for better gaming performance.
• Access BIOS/UEFI:
  • Restart your laptop and enter BIOS/UEFI settings during boot (usually by pressing F2, Delete, or Esc).
  • Look for graphics settings and adjust accordingly.

Step 5: Disable Lock Screen

• Turn Off Lock Screen:
  • Open Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen.
  • Scroll down and select Screen saver settings.
  • Disable the lock screen for quicker access to your desktop.

Step 6: Manage File Extensions

• Enable File Name Extensions:
  • Open File Explorer.
  • Click on the View tab and check the box for File name extensions to see the extensions of all files.
• Understand File Types:
  • Familiarize yourself with common file types to manage files more effectively.

Step 7: Add Final Touches

• Customize Start Menu:
  • Pin your favorite applications to the Start menu for easy access.
• Organize Desktop Icons:
  • Right-click on the desktop and select View > Show desktop icons to toggle visibility.

Step 8: Set Up Desktop Icons

• Choose Important Icons:
  • Decide which icons (e.g., This PC, Recycle Bin) you want on your desktop for convenience.
• Arrange Icons:
  • Drag and drop icons to arrange them in a way that suits your workflow.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can efficiently set up your new laptop to enhance its performance and usability. Regularly check for updates, manage bloatware, and customize settings to tailor your experience. Enjoy your new device and explore further optimizations based on your specific needs!