Set up a clean PC before adding more software
After building a PC, you need far less software than many setup guides suggest. Start with a legitimate operating system, complete its updates, install only the hardware drivers that are required, activate built-in security and establish a backup. Add browsers, games, office tools and specialist applications only when you actually need them.
Three useful setup accessories
You do not need to buy all three. Reuse a suitable USB drive or backup drive you already own. The security key is optional; these accessories support the setup process rather than replace the software steps below.
Software installation order at a glance
| Order | Software or task | Why it matters | Essential? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Windows installation and activation | Provides the operating system and establishes a trusted base | Yes |
| 2 | Windows Update | Installs security, reliability and many hardware updates | Yes |
| 3 | Chipset and motherboard drivers | Supports motherboard devices and platform features | As required |
| 4 | Graphics driver | Enables proper display performance, gaming and GPU features | Yes for dedicated graphics |
| 5 | Security and account protection | Reduces malware and account-compromise risk | Yes |
| 6 | Backup | Protects files from failure, theft, mistakes and ransomware | Yes |
| 7 | Applications | Adds the tools needed for work, communication or entertainment | Only those you use |
| 8 | Testing and monitoring tools | Confirms stability and temperatures | Useful during initial setup |
1. Install Windows from an official source
This guide focuses on Windows 11 on a compatible newly built PC. Download the official Microsoft installation tool on a working computer. Back up the USB drive first: creating installation media deletes its contents. Keep the exact motherboard’s network driver on a separate USB drive if Windows might need it to get online.
Create the installation USB using Microsoft’s official installation media. During setup, choose the correct drive carefully. If other drives contain important information, disconnecting them temporarily can reduce the risk of choosing the wrong destination.
Use a genuine licence appropriate to the computer. Windows may activate automatically when a valid digital licence is linked to the hardware or account, but do not assume a cheap marketplace key is legitimate.
Once the desktop appears, check:
- the correct Windows edition is installed;
- activation has completed;
- the system drive has the expected capacity;
- the date, time and Australian region are correct; and
- the display is connected to the graphics card when using a dedicated GPU.
2. Complete Windows Update
Connect to the internet and run Windows Update before installing a large collection of applications. Restart when required, check again and continue until important updates are complete. Windows Update can also supply drivers for many common devices.
Review optional driver updates instead of installing every one automatically. A newer optional driver is not necessarily required when the device already works correctly.
3. Install the chipset driver
The chipset driver helps Windows communicate correctly with the motherboard platform and can support power management, processor scheduling and connected devices. For a retail motherboard, start with its official support page and the processor-platform manufacturer’s guidance.
Download only the package that matches the exact platform and Windows version. Do not install both AMD and Intel chipset packages “just in case”.
4. Check motherboard device drivers
Windows may automatically install working drivers for networking, audio and other motherboard devices. Check Device Manager for unknown hardware or warning symbols and verify that the features you need operate correctly.
| Driver | When you may need it | Where to obtain it |
|---|---|---|
| Ethernet | Wired network is missing or unreliable | Motherboard or network-controller manufacturer |
| Wi-Fi | Wireless networks do not appear or features are missing | Motherboard or wireless-adapter manufacturer |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth is unavailable or performs poorly | Motherboard or wireless-adapter manufacturer |
| Audio | Analogue audio ports or audio-console functions do not work correctly | Motherboard support page |
| Storage or RAID | A particular storage or RAID configuration requires it | Motherboard or platform manufacturer |
| Thunderbolt or USB4 | Required ports or management features are unavailable | Motherboard support page |
Do not install every old driver on the motherboard page merely because it is listed. Compare dates, version notes and operating-system support.
5. Install the graphics driver
A dedicated NVIDIA, AMD or Intel graphics card needs its proper driver for gaming performance, display controls, video acceleration and supported features. Download it from the GPU maker’s official site or official application.
You do not necessarily need every companion feature. Recording overlays, automatic game optimisation, streaming functions and performance monitoring may be useful, but they can also add background processes and notifications.
For a new installation, use the current recommended or stable driver unless a particular application requires another version. Professional software users may prefer a creator or workstation-focused driver where the manufacturer provides one.
6. Confirm monitor settings
Windows may initially run a high-refresh monitor at 60Hz. Open the display settings and confirm:
- the monitor’s native resolution;
- the intended refresh rate;
- correct scaling for readable text;
- HDR only when the display and content justify it;
- the correct multi-monitor arrangement; and
- variable refresh rate where appropriate.
If the expected mode is unavailable, check the cable, GPU port, monitor input and display-driver installation.
7. Set up security before filling the PC
Windows Security provides built-in antivirus, firewall and protection features suitable for many home users. Adding a second real-time antivirus program can cause conflicts and is not automatically safer.
Complete these basics:
- confirm Microsoft Defender or another trusted security product is active;
- leave the firewall enabled;
- install operating-system and browser updates promptly;
- use unique passwords stored in a reputable password manager;
- enable multi-factor authentication on important accounts;
- avoid using an administrator account unnecessarily for daily tasks; and
- do not disable security warnings to run unknown installers.
8. Create a backup before you need one
Synchronisation and backup are related but not identical. A cloud service may copy deletions or ransomware-damaged files to other devices. A proper backup strategy keeps recoverable copies separated from the original computer.
The Australian Signals Directorate recommends maintaining backups and keeping software updated as important cyber-security measures. For valuable files, consider:
- an automatic local backup to an external drive;
- an additional off-site or reputable cloud backup;
- version history for documents that change often;
- periodic test restores; and
- disconnecting or otherwise protecting backup media when not in use.
A Windows recovery drive can help with startup or recovery, but it does not replace a backup of personal files.
9. Install a browser and password manager
Windows includes a capable browser, so another browser is optional. If you prefer a different one, download it from the developer’s official site and review synchronisation and privacy settings before importing everything.
A password manager can generate and store unique passwords. Choose one with a strong security record, protect the account with a strong master password and enable multi-factor authentication where supported.
10. Add document and productivity software
Install only what matches your needs. Possible categories include:
- word processing and spreadsheets;
- PDF viewing and editing;
- email and calendar;
- cloud storage and file synchronisation;
- video conferencing;
- notes and task management; and
- photo, video, audio or design applications.
Web-based tools may be enough for occasional use. Avoid paying an ongoing subscription for features available in software you already own or rarely use.
11. Install game launchers only when needed
Game stores and subscription services may each install launchers, update agents, overlays and startup processes. Install the platforms containing games you actually play rather than every launcher at once.
Choose game-library locations carefully if the PC contains multiple drives. Large games can fill a smaller system SSD quickly. Review whether each launcher genuinely needs to start with Windows.
12. Decide whether you need hardware-control software
Motherboard, cooler, lighting, keyboard, mouse and headset makers often provide their own applications. Some are needed for firmware updates, button remapping, fan control or saving a hardware profile. Others mainly add promotions, account requirements and background services.
Before installing one, ask:
- Does the hardware work without it?
- Can the same setting be saved in the BIOS or device memory?
- Does it need to run constantly?
- Can it control several devices instead of adding another utility?
- Does uninstalling it preserve the chosen settings?
Useful testing and monitoring software
A newly built PC should be checked before important work or long gaming sessions. Useful tools can monitor temperatures, confirm hardware, test memory and place a controlled load on the CPU or GPU.
Use trusted tools from their official developers and understand what a test does before running it. Do not launch several heavy stress tests simultaneously. Watch temperatures, fan behaviour, clock speeds and errors, and stop if the system behaves abnormally.
| Check | What it can reveal | What to watch |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware information | Incorrect memory capacity, link speed or missing device | Exact detected models and configuration |
| Temperature monitoring | Poor cooler mounting, failed fan or weak airflow | Temperature, fan speed, clock and power together |
| Memory test | Unstable memory profile or faulty module | Any reported error |
| CPU workload | Cooling or processor instability | Throttling, shutdowns, crashes and excessive temperature |
| GPU workload | Driver, power, cooling or graphics instability | Visual corruption, crashes, temperature and power connections |
| Storage health | Drive warnings or firmware information | Health warnings and unexpected errors |
Software you probably do not need
Third-party driver-updater programs
These tools can select inappropriate drivers, bundle unwanted software or create problems that did not exist. Use Windows Update and official hardware sources.
Registry cleaners
Routine registry cleaning does not provide a meaningful performance improvement on a healthy modern Windows installation and can remove the wrong entries.
Multiple antivirus programs
Two real-time security suites can conflict, slow the computer or generate confusing alerts. Use one reputable real-time protection system.
Automatic overclocking utilities
Do not apply an automatic overclock simply because motherboard software offers a button. It can increase voltage, heat, noise and instability.
RAM “optimisers” and booster applications
Windows already manages memory. Applications claiming to free RAM or instantly speed up the PC can create more work and reduce performance.
Codec packs from unknown sites
Modern media players support many formats without installing a huge third-party codec bundle. Add a trusted player or official codec only when a specific file requires it.
Should you update the BIOS immediately?
Check the installed version and the motherboard release notes. An update may be worthwhile for a relevant security fix, processor support, memory compatibility or stability correction. You do not need to flash every new version merely because it exists.
Before updating, confirm the exact motherboard model and revision, follow its official instructions, record important settings, protect BitLocker recovery information and ensure stable power.
What should start automatically with Windows?
Keep startup programs limited to software that genuinely needs to be ready immediately, such as security, required audio functions, backup or synchronisation. Chat clients, launchers, lighting controllers and update agents can often start manually.
Disable unnecessary startup entries through Windows settings rather than deleting program files. Confirm what an entry does before disabling it.
Privacy settings worth reviewing
During Windows and application setup, review location, diagnostic, advertising, microphone, camera and background-app permissions. Deny access that an application does not need, but avoid disabling essential security or update services based on an aggressive “debloat” script.
One-size-fits-all debloating tools may remove Microsoft Store functions, gaming dependencies, recovery features or services needed later. Make deliberate, reversible changes instead.
How the accessories fit your setup
Samsung BAR Plus 64GB (MUF-64BE3/APC)
The Champagne Silver BAR Plus is a USB-A flash drive you can use to create Windows installation media. Its 64GB capacity exceeds Microsoft’s minimum 8GB requirement. It does not include a Windows licence or a preinstalled operating system.
Why it may suit
- Reusable installation media.
- USB-A suits many desktop ports.
What to consider
- Creating installation media erases its contents.
- Not a substitute for a separate backup drive.
Samsung T7 Shield 1TB Black (MU-PE1T0S/WW)
This external SSD provides a separate destination for local file backups. Choose backup software and a schedule, then test restoring a file. The drive does not automatically make a backup merely because it is plugged in. Choose enough capacity for your files and version history; 1TB may be too small for a large library.
Why it may suit
- Compact storage separate from the system drive.
- Useful for file backups and transfers.
What to consider
- Needs a configured backup routine.
- A permanently connected drive is not an offline copy.
Yubico YubiKey 5 NFC
The YubiKey 5 NFC combines USB-A and NFC for supported authentication services, including FIDO2/WebAuthn. It is an optional account-security accessory, not antivirus or a backup device. Confirm support for each account before buying. Register a spare key or another suitable recovery method so losing one key does not lock you out.
Why it may suit
- Physical authentication for compatible accounts.
- USB-A and NFC in one key.
What to consider
- Account and device compatibility varies.
- Needs a recovery plan and careful enrolment.
A clean first-day checklist
- Install and activate Windows from an official source.
- Run Windows Update, restart and check again.
- Install the correct chipset package.
- Verify networking, Bluetooth, audio and storage devices.
- Install the official graphics driver.
- Set the monitor’s native resolution and refresh rate.
- Confirm Windows Security and the firewall are active.
- Retrieve and securely store any device-encryption recovery key.
- Configure automatic backup and test access to it.
- Install required applications from official sources.
- Remove unnecessary startup programs.
- Test memory, temperatures and stability.
- Create a restore point or system image if it suits your recovery plan.
- Record component models, serial numbers and driver or BIOS versions.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to install every motherboard driver?
No. Install the chipset package and any drivers required for devices or features you use. Windows may already provide working drivers for some components.
Do I need antivirus software other than Microsoft Defender?
Many home users can rely on the security built into a fully updated Windows installation, combined with safe browsing, unique passwords, multi-factor authentication and reliable backups. A paid suite may add features, but it is not automatically necessary.
Should I use the motherboard installation disc?
Only if you have no other way to obtain a network driver. Disc drivers may be outdated by the time the board is purchased. Prefer the current official support page.
Should I install graphics drivers before Windows Update?
Either order can work, but completing the initial Windows Update first provides a clean, updated base. Then install the GPU maker’s current recommended driver.
Do I need software for RGB lighting?
Only if the desired lighting cannot be controlled through hardware, firmware or an existing utility. Avoid installing several overlapping RGB programs where one solution is enough.
How do I know whether a driver is missing?
Check Device Manager for unknown devices or warning symbols and test the relevant hardware. A missing feature does not always mean a missing driver, so use the component manual and official support information.
Do I need paid office or PDF software?
Not necessarily. Free, web-based or already included tools may cover basic needs. Pay when a particular feature, compatibility requirement or professional workflow justifies it.
Sources and further reading
Official setup guidance and product information checked 27 September 2026. Retailer prices and availability can change; check the exact model before ordering.
- Microsoft Support: Windows updates
- Microsoft Support: Update drivers through Device Manager
- Microsoft Support: Windows Security
- Australian Cyber Security Centre: Backing up files and devices
- NVIDIA: Official driver downloads
- AMD: Official drivers and support
- Intel: Download Centre
- Microsoft: Create Windows installation media
- Samsung: T7 Shield 1TB Black specifications
- Yubico: YubiKey 5 NFC compatibility and features
Need a second opinion?
Ask Adrian before making the decision.
Tell us what you are choosing between, what matters most to you and what you have already checked.