New Computer Workflow
NOTE: THIS PAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION
I’m constantly configuring new windows based computer systems for clients. Some of the clients are technically literate and wanted me to provide a quick list of apps I use and the order to install. So here’s the quick version:
Power up the computer
Perform a system restore point
Check for Antivirus software
If none, use AVG Free for the install process.
Have Trial
If there is a trial version of any Antivirus software installed on the computer, just activate that.
My Recommendation
When the system is completely updated, you can make a decision on which product you want to use to protect your computer.
My suggestion for Antivirus is AVG Internet Security 2011.
Plug in your network cable and test your access to the net
Feed the Box!
Head over to Windows Update and start feeding the box all of the Operating System updates.
This step is going to take a while.
You might want to grab a cup of coffee…or your favorite beverage.
Do your updates in chunks and reboot the computer often.
Don’t Install any Hardware Drivers!
While updating the OS, do not select any hardware driver updates.
On most of computers you buy today, the manufacturer has their own utility for keeping the hardware drivers up to date
For example here’s a screen shot of the utility for a new HP machine
For clients, I setup the Support Assistant to automatically go out, get the updates and install them.
When you first access the Windows Update page, the default is set to just do Windows OS updates. This is fine. Just keep feeding the box and rebooting till it’s happy.
Will you bite the bullet and purchase a copy of Microsoft Office?
Now that you have finished feeding the operating system to the computer box, the next step is to decide if you want to shell out you hard earned cash for a copy of Office.
In my opinion, it may be worth the investment. I’ve played around with the various alternative for Office and while the price is right — Free, those choices seem to get in the way of my workflow. With Office I can quickly finish a project, bill the customer and move on to the next task. I rely heavily on Microsoft OneNote to keep track of just about everything. Feel free to shop around for Office. Here’s where I send my customers for good prices and support:
So … for those of you who want to purchase office, here’s my best recommendation: Software King
If you want to use Outlook for your email program,
then best option is: Microsoft Office 2010 Home and Business – 1 Install (Download Delivery)
Here’s the link to all choices for Microsoft Office 2010 Home and Business
If you don’t want to use Outlook for your email program,
Then the best option is: Microsoft Office 2010 Home and Student Retail – 3 Installs (Download Delivery)
Then use Mozilla Thunderbird as your email program
Best place to buy Office and download immediately:
Coming Soon!
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Coming Soon!
