Setting up a new notebook - the best tips

Your new notebook should be set up correctly and equipped with the most important programs. We show you which programs you need and how you can best get your device up and running. The manufacturer often installs its own software that only uses up unnecessary storage space. We'll show you which of them you need.

Set up a new notebook: Remove unnecessary software

First check which software has already been supplied. If you installed Windows yourself, skip this step. Otherwise you will often receive trial versions of programs. These are chargeable after a trial period of usually 30 days and then no longer function.

• If you don't want to use the tools for a long time, you should uninstall the demo versions right away. This will save you work after the trial period has ended. Free anti-virus scanners like Avira have similar protection functions to expensive pre-installed partner programs.
• Be careful not to uninstall special drivers. Separate drivers for interfaces such as touchpad or screen are often necessary. You should therefore find out in advance which programs you are uninstalling.
• If you are not sure whether you can uninstall a program, create a restore point beforehand. This way you can undo changes after the process.

Set up the necessary programs for your notebook

Basically, your notebook should have an anti-virus program. You should protect yourself against viruses, especially if you are mobile in networks other than your home network.

• Windows has Windows Defender, which does not guarantee complete protection. You can add free software to the tool. In another article you can read more about the test winner in the area of ​​virus scanners.
• In addition to drivers for sound, images and the Internet, communication programs such as Skype and Thunderbird are practical.
• Depending on how security-critical your applications are on the notebook, you should set a secure password.
• You also need a browser like Chrome or Firefox - the pre-installed Internet Explorer lacks many important functions.

Setting up the notebook's power settings and personalization

Functions such as keyboard lighting and the maximum brightness of the screen load the battery of your notebook. You can change these settings depending on the device using the key combination [Fn] + function key. The function you are changing is shown as an icon on the function keys.

• You can find more energy settings in the Control Panel. Under "System and Security"> "Power Options" you can adjust the behavior of your computer. There you can control, for example, whether the notebook is put into sleep mode when it is closed.
• You can also make personalizations such as screen backgrounds and a screen saver in the system settings.
• Some programs start automatically when the system is started. You should switch off hidden autostart programs so that your notebook starts faster.
• Once you have made all the settings, you should set up a regular backup. This protects you against file loss.

If you already have Windows 10 installed on your new notebook, you can also open several desktops in parallel.