Verifying a New Windows PC Setup

Ensure your new Windows PC is optimized, secure, and fully updated with this essential post-setup verification checklist.

1. Run Windows Update to completion. Navigate to Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates. Allow all critical security patches and driver updates to install completely. Restart your machine even if not explicitly prompted to ensure all kernel-level changes take effect.
2. Confirm activation status. Go to Settings > System > Activation. Verify that 'Activation state' is marked as 'Active'. This confirms your digital license is linked to your hardware and Microsoft account.
3. Audit Windows Security settings. Open Windows Security from the Start menu. Navigate to Virus & threat protection and ensure Real-time protection is toggled on. Run a Quick scan to confirm the system integrity and scan for any pre-installed bloatware threats.
4. Remove pre-installed bloatware. Navigate to Settings > Apps > Installed apps. Review the list for unnecessary manufacturer-bundled software or trial applications. Click the three-dot menu next to unwanted apps and select Uninstall to reclaim system resources.
5. Optimize startup applications. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and navigate to the Startup apps tab. Disable any non-essential applications that launch automatically upon login to decrease boot times. Keep essential drivers and security agents enabled.
6. Enable system protection and backup. Search for 'Create a restore point' in the Start menu and open the System Properties window. Select your C: drive, click Configure, and ensure 'Turn on system protection' is enabled with sufficient disk space allocated for restore points.