How to Install and Configure an Operating System on a New PC

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Installing an operating system (OS) is the final step in building a PC. Whether you’re using Windows, Linux, or macOS, a clean installation ensures your system runs smoothly and efficiently. This guide will take you through the process of installing and configuring your OS for the best performance.

1. Choosing the Right Operating System

The most common operating systems for PCs are:

✔️ Windows 11 – Best for gaming and general use.
✔️ Linux (Ubuntu, Mint, Arch, etc.) – Great for programming and security.
✔️ macOS – Only for Apple devices or Hackintosh setups.

For most users, Windows 11 is the best choice due to its compatibility with games and applications.

2. Creating a Bootable USB Drive

To install an OS, you’ll need a bootable USB drive.

For Windows 11

  1. Download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
  2. Insert a USB drive (at least 8GB) into your PC.
  3. Run the tool and select “Create installation media.”
  4. Choose your USB drive and let the tool create the bootable installer.

For Linux

  1. Download a Linux ISO file from the official website (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora).
  2. Use Rufus (Windows) or Balena Etcher (Mac/Linux) to create a bootable USB.
  3. Select the ISO file and your USB drive, then start the process.

Once the USB is ready, you can proceed with the installation.

3. Accessing the BIOS and Setting Boot Priority

Before installing the OS, you need to boot from the USB drive.

  1. Restart your PC and enter the BIOS/UEFI by pressing DEL, F2, or F12 (varies by motherboard).
  2. Go to the Boot Menu and set your USB drive as the first boot option.
  3. Save and exit (F10), and your PC will boot from the USB.

4. Installing Windows 11

  1. Once the Windows setup screen appears, choose language, time, and keyboard layout.
  2. Click “Install Now” and select “I don’t have a product key” (you can activate it later).
  3. Choose Custom: Install Windows only (for a clean installation).
  4. Select your SSD and format it before installing.
  5. The installation will begin, and your PC will restart several times.

After installation, follow the on-screen setup to configure your user account and internet connection.

5. Installing Linux

  1. Boot into the Linux installer from the USB drive.
  2. Choose “Install Linux” and follow the setup wizard.
  3. Select your SSD, erase disk, and install Linux.
  4. Set up your username and password.
  5. Once installed, restart your PC and remove the USB.

Linux will boot, and you can start customizing it immediately.

6. Updating Drivers and Essential Software

After installing the OS, update your drivers and essential software.

For Windows

✔️ Go to Windows Update and install all updates.
✔️ Download GPU drivers from NVIDIA (GeForce Experience) or AMD (Adrenalin Software).
✔️ Install motherboard drivers (chipset, LAN, audio) from the manufacturer’s website.

For Linux

✔️ Open the Terminal and run:

bashCopiarEditarsudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

✔️ Install proprietary GPU drivers if needed.

7. Optimizing System Settings

For better performance, make these adjustments:

✔️ Windows Power Plan – Set to High Performance in Control Panel > Power Options.
✔️ Disable Background Apps – Go to Settings > Privacy > Background Apps.
✔️ Enable XMP/EXPO for RAM – Check your BIOS settings to get the maximum RAM speed.

8. Installing Essential Programs

✔️ Browser – Google Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
✔️ Antivirus – Windows Defender (built-in) or Bitdefender.
✔️ PC Monitoring – MSI Afterburner, HWMonitor, CPU-Z.
✔️ Gaming Clients – Steam, Epic Games, Xbox App.
✔️ Productivity – Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, VLC Media Player.

9. Creating a Backup and System Restore Point

Once everything is set up, create a system restore point to recover your PC if anything goes wrong.

✔️ Go to Control Panel > System Protection.
✔️ Select “Create a Restore Point” and name it.
✔️ Consider making a full backup using an external SSD or cloud storage.

Final Thoughts

A fresh OS installation ensures your PC runs smoothly, efficiently, and securely.

💡 Key Takeaways:
✅ Use a bootable USB to install Windows or Linux.
✅ Update all drivers immediately after installation.
✅ Optimize system settings for better performance.
✅ Install essential programs to improve productivity.
✅ Create a restore point for safety.

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