So you have a new computer out of the box, ready to go? Not quite, slow down tiger! There are a few things you should do before you embark on your new PC adventure. These things will help ensure a more satisfying PC experience. Most computers that are straight out of the box are filled with programs that are actually trial programs. Usually you have a 30, 60, or 90 days to preview it before it turns off while leaving the remains “junk” of itself behind on your computer, for you to uninstall. The most harmful of these would be anti-virus programs. They give the user the false impression that they are protected when often they are not. Also, many anti-virus programs do not “play” well with other protection programs. If you go to install your own anti-virus on a new computer you need to make sure an existing trial program isn’t already installed on your PC. The consequences of not doing this are potentially devastating. My suggestion concerning preinstalled software on a new PC is to take it all off. Just because you were given a trial of software doesn’t mean it is a good one. My experience with preinstalled software is that it is not the best, in fact it is usually the most “commercial” and that is about it.
There are essential programs (basics) that a computer needs to ensure that programs run, e-mails open, and that you are able to view programs properly on your computer (online or offline). Interestingly enough, these are all free programs and they are not typically(that I have seen) preinstalled on a new PC.
· Adobe Reader (opens PDF files)
· Java (helps programs run)
· WinRAR (unzips zipped files usually from e-mail)
· Shockwave player (online video and some online applications)
· Mozilla Firefox (safer web browsing)
· Picasa (a fantastic simple photo organizing/viewing program)
To summarize, after buying a new PC, bring it home and take off all of the trial programs. Research reviews on anti-virus software before just buying the preinstalled one. Download and install all essential software. Finally, when you are finished, run a defrag (start button/programs/accessories/ system tools/ defragmentation) to put everything in order. There you have it, a new computer, as it should be, out of the box!
