new computer, now what?

[Western]

HeeHaw, Click "start" then "run" in the window box type "msconfig" This will open another box, click "startup" , BUT be very careful what you disable. Make sure you know which program it is, if you aren't sure, type it n a Google search bar and you will get info on it.

A lot of programs have automatic update features I don't like, can drag a system down at times, so I disable all my "auto updates" and do them manually, I do have Microsoft auto update, but I have it set to "notify" before it gets installed.

One more thing, I know Best Buy "Geek sqaud" will remove "bloatware" on a PC for a fee, you might check where you bought yours as an option.

 

[jymbee]

Don't install or accept any reinstalled virus software or protection suite. The nortons' and mcaffe's of the world pay the pc maker to have their reinstalled crapware on your new computer. Don't buy it.. Don't let it install.

Install "Microsoft Security Essentials" it is free, works well and won't hound you to upgrade to the next best thing they have concocted.

Enjoy your new PC!

:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Couldn't agree more.
Microsoft Security Essentials - Free Antivirus for Windows

In addition to the other good advice, you might want to consider-- after installing the main software programs you'll be using and everything is stable-- cloning the HD. Restore is a good idea, but if you have to go down that road in the event of a crash, it doesn't do you any good with applications.


System Restore uses restore points to return your system files and settings to an earlier point in time, without affecting personal files.

Cloning OTOH makes a bit-by-bit image of your HD. I usually by a computer with the minimum size HD, then after getting everything installed and running, clone that HD to a much larger HD and use that going forward. Always have the original to go back to in a few minutes if necessary. Also periodically re-clone, especially after something like installing multiple new apps.

 

[beppington]

I've also been using Microsoft Security Essentials on 3 computers for quite a while now, & it seems to work fine. Free & doesn't seem to slow the computer down.

 

[EagleTDL]

My wife is using MS Security Essentials and really likes it (I use Comodo, but I think I'm going to try the MS program)

I agree about Norton...was, at one time, a good program. Hasn't been good for many years though...

I think, Roy, that over the years, I've used most all of 'em. Windows Firewall, Zone Alarm, Comodo, McAffee, Norton, Kapersky, etc. The only time Essentials "nags" is when it needs to run a scan (always delay-able) and if it has updated itself. Otherwise, it just sits there and does its thing... Small footprint and since it's a MS product (I know, I know...) it's very well integrated into the OS and doesn't use a ton of resources.

So far, so good... When I'm on the road I'm always on the "public" networks (Airport, Hotels, Hotspots, etc) and so far I haven't picked up any nasties. Need another trip or two to really be comfortable, but from what I've seen so far it's doing OK... And of course, YMMV! :laughing:

 

[heehaw]

i assume it takes a special program to clone a hd??
heehaw

 

[RoyJackson]

i assume it takes a special program to clone a hd??
heehaw

Another term for "cloning" is "imaging" a hard drive.
Partition Magic had a nice imaging program, but I have read mixed reviews of their latest product.
Anyway, do a Google search for "Imaging a hard drive"....you'll be educated!

 

[jymbee]

i assume it takes a special program to clone a hd??
heehaw

What hee said. I use Acronis [Backup software and disaster recovery solutions for both Windows and Linux servers]
to clone HDs and run ongoing backups. This particular program isn't free but there are a number of disc cloning or imaging programs out there you can find by searching.

Depending on your comfort level with technical things, another option if you know someone who is a tech guru type is to have them setup things like cloning and backup by using sites like GoToMyPC [Remote Access | GoToMyPC] or Logmein [https://secure.logmein.com/products/pro/]. That way you can just sit back and watch while they take control and guide you through everything. We use these programs almost daily for various tasks and they work very well.

 

[massey990]

Speaking of having a new system, here is an app that will automatically download and install many of the most popular software applications.

Ninite - Install or Update Multiple Apps at Once

This will really save you time and trouble of installing apps one at a time...it will not install any "toolbars" that are commonly bundled.

 

[pilonidal]

MSE is great and free from MS so it works great on it's own OS. Also good for a 1-2 punch is Malwarebytes. MSE does miss some stuff. Malware is for malicious software that some how gets installed from some sites. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware - Free software downloads and software reviews - CNET Download.com Please check it out just dl it and install. The free version you manually scan the comp. I scan it once a month or if the comp is acting up, it's just a couple of mouse clicks. It also comes with updates as they come out. The paid version is real time protection. If you set up a guest account you can also scan the comp from there if your main account is screwed. It's very good check it out.

 

[yooper1]

Avast is free and works well (anti-virus)

found here:

avast! - Download Free Antivirus software or Internet Security