#135 - Setting up you new PC

I have been setting up a lot of new PCs lately so I thought I might tell you what I have been doing so that you can see if you have these same settings. Note these items are for Windows XP (I'll do the Vista version later {MUCH LATER}).

When I first turn on a new PC you have to set up the Date and decide whether to register with Microsoft and the PC manufacturer. I don't register anything anymore. I really haven't seen the advantage. The only exception is for upgrading the warranty. I definitely register that item. Next is the User decision. I like to leave the built in Administration user alone. So I create a new user (Start, Control Panel, Users) that is also has administrator rights and is in the new owners name.

I then log in the computer as the new user name and start making my changes. I get rid of Bloatware SEE THIS OLD BLOG for info on how and what to do.

Then right click the desktop and click on Properties. In the Display Properties window I click on the Desktop tab and then the Customize Desktop button. I then uncheck the Run Desktop Wizard item. Then I click on the Screen Saver tab and set up the Screen Saver and the Power Options. I then click on the Appearance tab and the Effects button. I click on Use the following method to smooth edges of fonts down arrow and pick ClearType (this makes the fonts look good!).

I then click OK and start on the task bar. I right click the Start button and pick Properties. I click on the Start Menu Tab and Customize button. I click on the Advanced tab and uncheck the Highlight newly install programs box. I click OK , OK to end that change. I right click on the blue task bar and Properties. I uncheck Hide inactive icons box then click on the Apply button.

That ends my initial set up and now I can start installing programs. (Wheesh!) And you thought my job was easy!