Before you turn on the new laptop
Have these basics ready so the first setup does not feel like a series of surprises. You can return to many choices later, but it is easier to start with the right account, network and accessories.
Set up your new laptop step by step
Work through these steps in order. The wording and screens vary between Windows laptops, MacBooks and Chromebooks, so choose the matching platform section below if a prompt looks different.
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Unbox and check the essentials
Remove the laptop and charger carefully. Check for visible damage, then keep the quick-start information nearby in case the setup assistant asks for a model-specific step.
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Connect the charger
Plug the charger into a suitable power source and the laptop. Keep it connected while the laptop completes its initial setup and any important updates.
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Turn on the laptop
Press and release the power button once. If the screen stays blank, check the charger connection and look for the manufacturer's support guidance rather than repeatedly pressing the button.
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Choose language, region and keyboard
Select the language, country or region and keyboard layout you want. Check the keyboard choice carefully because it affects symbols and shortcuts later.
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Connect to the internet
Choose a trusted Wi-Fi network and enter its password when prompted. An internet connection can allow the laptop to complete setup, check activation and download current updates.
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Sign in or create the right account
Use your Microsoft Account, Apple Account or Google Account where the platform requests one. For a work or school laptop, use the account and process supplied by the organisation.
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Review privacy and accessibility choices
Read the options for location, diagnostics, voice features, accessibility and personalisation. Turn on the features you need and remember that many choices can be changed later in Settings.
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Create a secure sign-in
Set a password, PIN or another available sign-in method. If the laptop offers Windows Hello, Touch ID or another supported option, follow the on-screen instructions and keep a backup sign-in method available.
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Install system updates
After reaching the desktop, check for operating system updates and restart if asked. Keep the laptop connected to power while updates are downloading or installing.
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Transfer files and add the essentials
Move the files you need from your previous computer, cloud storage or external drive. Then connect your accessories, install essential apps from trusted sources and test the laptop before relying on it for important work.
Useful settings shortcut on Windows Once you reach the desktop, press Win I to open Settings. This is where you can check updates, accounts, privacy, Bluetooth and network options.
Windows laptop setup
Windows setup guides you through the keyboard layout, network, account, privacy and device-use choices. The exact screens can vary by Windows version, laptop configuration and whether the laptop is for personal or organisation use.
During the first start
Choose the keyboard layout and connect to Wi-Fi when prompted. Select personal use or work or school use as appropriate, then sign in with the relevant Microsoft Account or organisation account.
After reaching the desktop
Open Start > Settings > Windows Update and check for updates. Then review Accounts > Sign-in options and Privacy & security so the laptop matches your preferences.
Check activation and devices
Review Settings > System > Activation if you need to check Windows activation. Open Bluetooth & devices to connect a mouse, keyboard, printer or other accessory.
If setup cannot connect to Wi-Fi Check the network password, move closer to the router or try another trusted network. If the issue continues, follow Microsoft or the laptop manufacturer's network guidance.
MacBook setup
Mac Setup Assistant guides you through language, region, network, Apple Account and account security choices. Some Mac models can also offer a transfer route from a nearby iPhone or iPad when the requirements are met.
During the first start
Follow Setup Assistant, choose your region and keyboard, connect to Wi-Fi and sign in with your Apple Account. Create the Mac user account and password when prompted.
Transfer what you need
If you are moving from another Mac or a Time Machine backup, follow the Migration Assistant or Setup Assistant transfer route. Select the information you need rather than bringing across everything automatically.
Check updates and security
Open Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update and install available updates. Review Privacy & Security and connect your accessories through Bluetooth or the relevant port.
MacBook setup shortcut If the Mac offers a transfer option from a nearby iPhone or iPad, check the displayed requirements before choosing it. You can also complete setup and transfer information later using Apple's supported tools.
Chromebook setup
Chromebook setup is centred around a Google Account and an internet connection. Your bookmarks, extensions and some settings can appear when you sign in with the relevant account.
Choose the basics
Turn on the Chromebook, choose the language and keyboard settings, review accessibility options if needed and connect to a trusted Wi-Fi network.
Sign in with Google
Enter the Google Account details for the person who will own or manage the Chromebook. If it belongs to a school or workplace, follow the administrator's instructions.
Check updates and files
ChromeOS checks for updates when connected to the internet. Review the Launcher, Google Drive and the Downloads location, then install the web or Android apps you need where supported.
Chromebook file reminder Files in Google Drive are available online when you sign in, while files in Downloads are stored locally. Back up important local files before a reset or device change.
Complete these first-day checks
Before you settle into everyday use, take a few minutes to confirm that the laptop is ready for the tasks you bought it for.
Check the display
Set a comfortable brightness, check for unusual flickering and confirm that the display resolution looks correct.
Test sound and camera
Play a short sound, check the volume and open the camera app or a video-call preview if you plan to make calls.
Connect your accessories
Pair your mouse, keyboard, printer, headphones or monitor one at a time. Check the connection type and the laptop ports before plugging anything in.
Review storage
Check how much storage is available and decide where documents, downloads and photos should live. Remove setup files or apps you do not need.
Set a backup routine
Choose a suitable cloud or external-drive backup approach for important documents and photos. Test that you can find a backed-up file.
Keep recovery details safe
Store account recovery information and any device-specific codes somewhere private and accessible when you need them.
Add the software your new laptop needs
Once the laptop is connected and updated, choose software that supports the way you work and browse. Check the operating system and subscription details before installation.
Get straight to work with Microsoft Office 365 Personal
Add a one-user, 12-month Microsoft Office 365 Personal subscription for familiar Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and OneNote tools. The product is supplied as a digital download, so check the listed compatibility before installation.
Add protection for your connected devices
Review Norton 360 Deluxe when you want security features including antivirus, VPN, password manager and PC cloud backup. The listed product is a three-device, 12-month subscription for compatible Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices, and is not compatible with Chromebook.
Check before installing Use the product page and manufacturer's instructions for current compatibility, account requirements and activation steps. Keep product keys and account details private.
What to do if setup does not go smoothly
Most setup issues come from power, network, account or update problems. Try the simple checks first and record any error message before contacting support.
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The laptop will not start
Check the charger, power source and charging indicator. Disconnect accessories and follow the laptop manufacturer's power guidance if the screen remains blank.
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Wi-Fi is not appearing
Check that Wi-Fi is switched on, move closer to the router and confirm that the network name is being broadcast. Try another trusted network if available.
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The account sign-in is rejected
Check the email address and password, confirm that the laptop is online and use the account provider's recovery route if you cannot sign in.
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An update appears stuck
Keep the laptop connected to power and allow the process time to finish. If the screen shows an error or the laptop repeatedly restarts, follow the platform or manufacturer support guidance.
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You are moving files from another computer
Pause and check that important files are backed up before transferring or resetting anything. Use the official transfer tool for your platform where available.
New laptop setup questions, answered
What should I do first when I get a new laptop
Connect the charger, turn on the laptop, choose the language and region, connect to a trusted network and follow the setup assistant for your platform.
Should I charge my new laptop before setting it up
Connect it to power before and during the initial setup. This gives the laptop power while it completes setup and checks for system updates.
Do I need a Microsoft Account, Apple Account or Google Account
The account you need depends on the laptop and how you plan to use it. Windows, macOS and ChromeOS each use their own account routes, while work or school devices may require an organisation account.
When should I transfer files to my new laptop
Install important system updates and confirm the new laptop is working before transferring files. Back up the files on the previous computer first, then transfer only the documents, photos and settings you need.
What software should I install on a new laptop
Start with the apps you need for work, study, communication and media, then add security software where it is compatible with your platform. Download apps from trusted sources and check subscription or activation requirements.
Should I install security software on a Chromebook
Check the security product's compatibility before buying or installing it. For example, the Norton 360 Deluxe product linked on this page lists Windows, Mac, Android and iOS support and states that it is not compatible with Chromebook.