How to set up your new Dell computer

Overview

Congratulations on your new Dell computer purchase! Now that you have your new Dell in hand, this guide will take you step by step through setting it up for use for the first time. There are several stages to setting up your computer:

Table of Contents:

1. Overview
2. Physical Setup
3. Microsoft Windows Setup
4. Create Recovery Media
5. Update Windows
6. Update Drivers and BIOS
7. Optional: Create Data Backup
8. Set up Office 2016, 2019 or 365
9. Set up a Headset

Physical Setup

1. Plug your computer into AC power using the enclosed power cables.
2. Connect your monitor*
3. Connect your mouse and keyboard*
4. Connect your speakers*
5. Turn your computer on.

* - Optional for laptops. For specific information about configuring and setting up your external hardware, see the User Manual or Setup Guide for your specific computer model.

Microsoft Windows Setup

Windows needs some information from you before starting the Windows desktop. The first time your computer boots, it will ask for some information:

• Geographic location - to change these settings after see Microsoft's How to set your time and time zone.
• Wi-Fi settings(optional) - see Windows 10 Wireless Networking Usage and Troubleshooting Guide for the Home
• Microsoft Account sign-in
• PIN setup for Microsoft Account (optional)
• OneDrive setup
• Cortana setup

Create Recovery Media

Recovery media is used to repair or recover Windows 10 when you encounter software or hardware issues. See article, Create Windows 10 recovery media for your Dell computer for more information.

Update Windows

Your Dell computer will automatically update to the latest version of Windows 10. This may take some time and your computer may restart.

Update Drivers and BIOS

Dell updates drivers, applications, and firmware to meet the demands of new software and hardware. Learn more about installing and updating drivers in the correct order by visiting the Drivers and Downloads FAQ page.

Optional: Create Data Backup

Learn how to schedule backups of your important data using File History, which is part of Windows 10. See Microsoft's article, Back up and restore your files for more information.

Set up Office 2016, 2019 or 365

See How to Find and Activate Microsoft Office 2016, 2019 or 365 on your New Dell System for more information about setting up Microsoft Office.

Set up a Headset

• USB: Wired USB headsets often included additional controls, inline amps, and versatility. Any device with USB should support a wired USB headset. Wireless is an option with USB wireless receiver-based headsets.
• Wireless: Bluetooth and USB wireless receiver-based headsets are an option that simplify the workspace and enhance freedom of movement.
• 3.5 mm jack: Inexpensive legacy wired headsets often end with dual 3.5 mm jacks, one for audio and one for the microphone, (if color-coded; pink for the microphone and green for the headset.) Wireless is not an option with 3.5 mm jack-based computers.

Configuring audio output in Windows 10:

1. Left-click the sound icon in the taskbar.
2. Select the sound device in the drop-down menu.
3. Choose the connected headset.

   

Testing audio output in Windows 10:

1. Ensure that audio is not muted.
2. Right-click the sound icon in the taskbar.
3. Select Open Sound settings.
4. Select the dropdown under Choose your output device on the right.
5. Select the Headset (should be listed separately from Speakers or Headphones).

   

6. Click Device properties.

   

7. Select the Advanced tab.
8. Click the Test button.

   

Configuring a microphone in Windows 10:

1. Right-click the sound icon in the taskbar.
2. Select Open Sound settings.
3. Select the dropdown under Choose your input device on the right.
4. Select the Headset Microphone (should be listed separately from default computer microphone if applicable).

   

Testing a microphone in Windows 10:

1. Ensure that the microphone is not muted.
2. Right-click the sound icon in the taskbar.
3. Select Open Sound settings.
4. Speak into the microphone while observing the meter under Test your microphone.

   

Out of warranty? No problem. Browse to the Dell.com/support website and enter your Dell Service Tag and view our offers.