Did you just install Windows 11? Top 10 things to do

If you just installed Windows 11, congratulations. Now it's time to get started. Of course, you've probably heard about all its cool features and can't wait to experience the same. It's not just about using the right application or hardware.

To make sure your Windows 11 experience is as smooth as possible, there are a few simple things you can do. So, here are some things you need to know before booting up your new operating system.

How to get the most out of Windows 11?

There are some steps you need to take to ensure you get the most out of Windows 11 11. Here’s what you need to know:

• Check Hardware Compatibility – First, make sure your computer meets the minimum requirements for Windows 11. You can check it out on Microsoft's product page or use the PC Health Check app. If it doesn't meet the requirements, you'll need to upgrade your computer or buy a new one before you can get Windows 11. Although you can install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, your use of the operating system will be limited.
• Use the right version of Windows – Windows 11 is more than just a product. There are several different versions available, each with its own pros and cons. Some of these versions are free upgrades, while others require you to purchase a new license. For example, Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro. The version that best suits your needs depends on several factors, including the applications you use, the type of hardware you have, and whether it's for personal needs or business. We have a special article recommending the best Windows versions for gamers.
• Sign up with a Microsoft account When you start your computer for the first time, you'll be asked whether you want to sign in with a Microsoft account or create an account. If you already have one, it's worth logging in. This not only provides seamless integration with all settings across devices, but also provides access to other essential services. However, you can set up Windows without a Microsoft account.

What do I need to do to prepare for Windows 11?

1. Check for Windows updates

Windows updates often contain bug and security fixes to protect your system. You should do this regularly to ensure your computer runs smoothly and securely. While there are optional updates, you should also check for them and update accordingly.

Optional updates often include driver updates, which are also essential for the smooth running of your PC and preventing BSoD errors.

Alternatively, if you don't want to use the Windows Update route, you can use other methods to update your drivers.

2. Check Activation Status

Like any other version of Windows, Windows 11 can be activated using a product key. This is very important, especially if you want to experience all the features.

#This is also a way to verify that the copy of Windows you are using is legitimate. If you see that your version is activated, there is no need to worry.

If your version of Windows is not activated, it may still be in the trial period. This means your access to certain features may be restricted.

Other times, your product key may not work, so it's best to resolve this issue before continuing.

3. Create a Restore Point

To create a restore point, if you are new to the Windows 11 operating system, prioritize it at the top of the list. Getting a new operating system is like getting a new toy.

You are curious, so, usually, you explore a lot. While this is a great way to get familiar with Windows 11, it can quickly lead to disastrous consequences.

Restore points allow you to revert to an earlier time when your computer was damaged or something went wrong. Before making any major changes, creating a safety net is like an insurance policy that will keep your PC safe.

4. Set up profiles and passwords

After activating your copy of Windows and creating a restore point, the next step is to set up user profiles, especially if it is a shared PC.

If you have been using Windows, you are probably very familiar with the concept of configuration files. You can create multiple user accounts on the same computer, each with their own settings and data.

This way you can have an administrator account and other local accounts. It is very useful for privacy and security purposes.

After you complete setup, you can choose from the many available Windows 11 sign-in options as a way to sign in. There are several options available to you, including Windows Hello (face recognition, fingerprint, and PIN), security keys, passwords, or picture passcodes.

If you are a single user and do not want to password protect your PC, you can choose the automatic login feature.

5. Back up your files

You should always back up your files as there is no guarantee that your PC will always be virus-free. Files can also get corrupted when you make changes to the registry, so it's great to have a backup somewhere.

Windows 11 offers a built-in backup tool that allows you to back up your photos, documents, music, and other files. You can also use backup software that offers more storage solutions.

6. Protect your system

While Windows 11 comes with Windows Defender built-in, it may not be as comprehensive as third-party antivirus software. Secure computers protect against viruses, malware, and other threats.

Make sure you have an antivirus program installed on your computer and keep it up to date with regular updates. If we had to recommend one, ESET NOD32 would be our first choice.

Also, a firewall will come in handy. They protect your computer from unauthorized access from the Internet or other computers.

7. Disable unnecessary startup programs

Many programs start automatically when you start Windows. This is great because it saves you the trouble of opening each program individually. If there are too many startup programs, your computer may take a long time to start.

Expert Tip:

Certain PC problems are difficult to solve, especially when Windows’ system files and repositories are missing or corrupted.
Be sure to use a specialized tool, such as Fortect, which will scan for corrupted files and replace them with new versions from their repository.

Startup programs may slow down your computer and make it less responsive. The problem is that these programs aren't always necessary, and they can take up memory and CPU resources that could be better used by the application you actually want to run.

If you do not want programs to run in the background all the time, you should disable these programs. This will ensure your system boots faster and uses less memory while running.

8. Uninstall Unnecessary Apps

If you have heard of the term “bloatware,” this is where it comes from. Manufacturers like to include their own apps on new PCs and don't always remove them when they are no longer needed.

Windows 11 comes with many pre-installed applications. Some are useful, but many are just there to take up space on your hard drive and distract you from what you're trying to do.

They can also make the operating system very slow, so it's best to get rid of these applications to improve speed and performance.

While uninstalling, also take the opportunity to install any apps you find valuable to ensure your experience is great.

9. Clean Junk Files

As you are probably aware, temporary files accumulate over time and take up space on your hard drive. These files serve no useful purpose and occupy space on your hard drive.

This may not seem like a big deal, but it is. Any small files left behind after downloading something or installing an app will increase in size over time.

You can use Windows 11’s built-in disk cleanup tool to eliminate any unnecessary files taking up space on your hard drive.

10. Personalize your PC

The personalization options in Windows 11 are diverse. Some of the customizations you can make include:

Change Theme

The first thing you’ll notice after updating to Windows 11 is that it has a new look. The default desktop background is now black, making it feel slightly dimmer compared to previous versions of Windows.

However, if you feel that the dark theme is not suitable for you, you can switch to the light theme. A theme is a set of colors, sounds, and other aspects that can be applied to your computer. You can choose from multiple preset themes or create a custom theme yourself.

Other themes to choose from include:

• Educational Theme
• Dark Theme
• Winter Theme
• Christmas Theme
• Valentine's Day Theme

Customize Start Menu

The Start Menu is the main menu that appears on the screen when you start using your computer. It makes sense to customize it since it covers all programs and applications installed on your computer.

You can choose which apps appear in the All Apps list, pin apps, and even customize recommendations. Learn more about Start menu customization options in our detailed article.

Customize File Explorer

As the main file manager application in Windows 11, you use File Explorer frequently, so you need to make some changes that suit you.

You can change the theme, layout and default program to open files. Our comprehensive guide includes additional customizations you can perform through File Explorer. If you are not satisfied with it, you can always choose another file manager.

Customize the lock screen interface

The lock screen is the screen that is displayed when you start your computer, and is also the screen you see when you lock your computer.

You can customize it to display additional information such as calendar events, weather forecasts, and more.

What are some cool things you can do on Windows 11?

Let's face it, from the outside, Windows 11 seems to be just a basic operating system with certain changes. However, you'd be surprised how cool the operating system is.

Luckily, we’ve shared a few things below that you might not know and how they can make your life easier:

• Run Applications as Other Users – While not a new feature, most people typically switch profiles if they want to run an application that's not available in their profile. Well, you don't have to do that anymore.
• Create Keyboard Shortcuts – You probably know the common, everyday shortcuts we use for multitasking. However, Windows 11 allows you to create your own keyboard shortcuts, which will definitely make your life easier.
• Remove Windows 11 Ads – Ads in any form and platform can be annoying. They tend to pop up at the most inopportune times and can frustrate you. Well, not anymore. You can now remove ads from Windows 11.
• Change startup/shutdown sounds – Did you know you don’t have to stick to the default Windows 11 startup or shutdown sounds? If you want to cancel it, you can actually disable it entirely.

We’ve got more cool Windows 11 stuff to try, so head over to our dedicated article to learn more about what you might have missed.

Also, check out our new computer checklist to familiarize yourself with what you need to do when setting up your new computer.

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