Yourfirst steps look a little different.
We considered calling this “install anantimalware program” but almost all computers come with one preinstalled.
Windows has Microsoft’s own built-in tool, so most PCs are ready to go.
Here’s the thing, though: It won’t be updated.
Probably not, anyway.
As mentioned above, new Windows computers typically have basic antivirus protection, but it’s not the best.
SeeHow to Install Windows Updatesif you’ve never done this and need help.
TheWindows Updatetool is preconfigured to download and install updates automatically.
Fortunately, it’s easy tochange Windows Update settingsthis is something we usually recommend people do.
Windows Update might installdriverupdates for you, too, which are needed for yourhardwareto work properly.
Keep one of those programs on your setup to double-check you always have quick access to these updates.
This might be a scenario if you’veinstalled Windows manually.
Install a File Recovery Program
This one might surprise you.
That’s not a risk you want to take.
See ourFree File Recovery Software Programslist for a number of excellent and completely free undelete tools.
Just install one and forget it.
If you need it in the future, it’ll be there.
Anonline backup serviceis the best and most cost-effective long term solution to keeping your data safe.
Head into tweaks ofControl Panel, depending on your Windows version, anduninstall those programs.
They’re calleduninstallers, andwe’ve reviewed a number of them.
