So, you just finished a brand new PC build but you’re not sure what to do next? No problem! By the end of this quick post, you’re going to know exactly what you need to do!

Building a computer can be an awesome experience, as long as everything goes smoothly. But, not knowing what to do can really ruin the whole process and leave you wondering why.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at the first steps you should take after building a new PC!

1.) Install your OS

The first step after you’ve assembled your new PC is installing your operating system. Whether that’s Windows, Linux, or something else, the process is almost always the same.

In a modern system, you can simply load in your installation media and it’ll automatically run. But, in an older system you’ll have to navigate into your motherboard’s BIOS, into the boot settings, and from there you’ll have to set either CD/DVD or USB as your primary boot source depending on the format of your OS installer.

From there, the only thing you have to do is follow the on-screen instructions. Just, make sure you’re installing your OS to the right location! If you have an SSD, make sure you’re selecting it as your install path! You wouldn’t want to reinstall Windows just because you used the wrong drive the first time.

2.) Install your drivers

Almost every part of your new PC build has their own specific drivers required for them to function right. Parts like your CPU, GPU, and motherboard all rely on these updated drivers for performance enhancements and general improvements.

Without installing and regularly updating your drivers, your GPU drivers especially, your PC might not perform the way it should.

Luckily, if you’re using Windows 10, it’ll do some of the work for you and install whatever drivers it has access to that you’ll need. Usually, this is just enough to get into Windows and start installing/updating manually.

Assuming you have access to the internet, you can ignore the discs that come with your hardware. These driver discs can be useful – sometimes – but assuming you’re able to get into Windows without a hitch then you won’t need them. Instead, you’ll want to go online and grab the newest versions right away. Since you just built your PC, you should have a good idea of the parts inside of it. Typically, you can head over to the brand’s website and download all of the newest drivers for your specific part.

Just a note: If you’re running an Nvidia or an AMD graphics card, go right to their website to get drivers. It doesn’t matter which AIB partner you’re using (Gigabyte, Asus, EVGA, etc), you’ll always go right to either AMD or Nvidia to get your GPU drivers.

3.) Use protection

Using adequate protection is the easiest way to avoid unwanted infections. Luckily, Windows Defender comes with Windows 10 and it’s a fairly decent all-in-one anti-virus, firewall, and malware scanner.

You could use Windows Defender and be safe enough. Or, you could use a third-party program like Avira, Malwarebytes or anything else you prefer.

While you’re going online to find your preferred anti-virus, you can browse with confidence knowing that Windows Defender is going to keep you safe from intrusions. Upon installing your new AV, Defender will automatically disable so you’re not running into any conflicts.

Conclusion

And there you have it, the 3 most important steps to take after building a new PC.

The 2nd step is easily the most important AND the most overlooked. So many new builders ignore updating their drivers and then wonder why they’re not getting good performance while gaming. Avoid that headache altogether and take the 30-minutes or so to install and update all of your drivers!