Customizing Your New Windows Installation: Essential Settings for a Smooth Setup

When installing a fresh copy of Windows, there are numerous customization options available that can significantly enhance your experience. This article outlines some of the most important settings you should consider changing to tailor your Windows 10 installation to your personal or professional needs.

Customization Options During Installation

During the installation process, you can personalize various aspects of your Windows setup. Here are some essential steps:

Language and Keyboard: Choose the language and keyboard layout you prefer. Partition and Format: Decide where to install Windows and format the drive as needed (NTFS, FAT32, exFAT). Installation Type: Choose between a clean installation or an upgrade, depending on your requirements. Product Key: Enter a valid product key to activate your copy of Windows. User Accounts: Create a user account during setup or at a later stage. Privacy Settings: Customise your privacy settings according to your preferences. Time Zone and Date: Set the correct time zone and date. Driver Updates: Decide whether to download and install drivers or defer them to a later time. Windows Features: Install optional Windows features such as the .NET Framework, Remote Desktop, or IIS.

Recommended Settings After Fresh Installation of Windows 10

After a fresh installation, there are several settings I recommend configuring immediately to ensure optimal functionality. Here are a few key recommendations:

1. Configure Windows Update

Click the Start button and then the Settings icon. Select Update Security on the Settings page. Go to Windows Update. Click on Check for updates. The updates will download and install automatically. Click Restart now when the installation is complete to restart your PC. To configure update settings, go to Advanced options and turn off all settings except for Notify me of updates. Toggle off the automatic update and set active hours as per your schedule. Pause updates temporarily for 35 days by selecting the Pause updates option under Update options to manage monthly updates.

2. Enable System Protection and Restore Points

Search for System Restore and open it. Select your boot drive (usually C:), click Configure. Select Turn on system protection and click OK. Create a restore point with a description and click Create.

3. Unhide File Extensions and Hidden Files

Double-click File Explorer from the Taskbar. Go to the View tab, and check the Show hidden files, folders, or drives box. Also, check the Show file extensions box.

4. Remove the Lock Screen

Search for Regedit and open it. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftWindows. Create a new DWORD value named NoLockScreen and set its value to 1.

5. Disable Unnecessary Startup Items

Right-click the Taskbar and select Task Manager. Go to the Startup tab and disable any unnecessary startup items.

By following these steps, you can ensure your Windows 10 installation is optimized for your needs, providing a more personalized and efficient computing experience.