Getting Started with a New Computer: Key Takeaways

Introduction

• Post-Christmas tips for new PC users or anyone wanting to optimize their current PC settings.
• Most new computers come with default configurations focused on stability rather than performance.
• Optimizing your system doesn't mean sacrificing reliability.

Key Points for New PC Users

Initial Setup

1. BIOS Configuration:
   • Power off computer and enter BIOS settings.
   • Different computers have different keys to access BIOS (e.g., Delete, F2, Escape, F10).
   • Adjust memory settings, specifically checking DRAM profile configuration (XMP settings).

Managing Windows Activation

• If you received a Windows 10 copy, consider activating it with a valid key.
• Use services like VIPD Key to get a discounted Windows 10 license and upgrade to Windows 11 for free.

Performance Optimization

• Manufacturers prioritize stability over performance; users can adjust settings to enhance performance.
• Optimize system performance by activating XMP for memory modules, if applicable.
• Troubleshoot XMP issues by switching RAM channels, testing individual sticks or updating BIOS.

Installing and optimizing Windows

• Reinstall Windows using a bootable USB to avoid bloatware with pre-built systems.
• Important: Consider disabling the Microsoft Account requirement using Rufus.
• Regularly check your BIOS settings to ensure XMP and other settings are as required, especially after BIOS updates.

Creating a Bootable USB with Rufus

• Rufus Installation: Download and install Rufus from their website to create a bootable USB drive.
• Choose the appropriate ISO version from Microsoft's website.
• Configure Rufus to disable unnecessary Windows 11 installer requirements, such as the mandatory Microsoft Account creation.

Post-installation Steps

• Driver Installation:
  • Use the Device Manager to identify and resolve unknown devices.
  • Install chipset drivers and display adapters (e.g., Nvidia drivers) directly from manufacturer's websites.
  • Use tools like NV Clean Install to download and customize Nvidia drivers without bloatware.
  • Check the installation of other necessary drivers, such as GPU and chipset drivers.

Additional Software

• Consider using Fan Control software for managing fan speeds according to system usage and cooling needs, especially with custom builds.

Additional Recommendations

• Reload Windows 11 on both pre-built and custom systems to ensure a clean installation without unnecessary software.
• Keep system drivers updated from the manufacturer’s site for optimal performance.
• Monitor XMP settings in the BIOS, especially after updates, to ensure RAM performance.

Conclusion

The guide covers basic tips for setting up a new PC, including configuring BIOS settings, managing Windows activation, reinstalling and optimizing Windows, and ensuring the installation of necessary drivers for smooth system performance. Additional system optimizations are possible but are not included in this guide.