Every year, right after Christmas, I start getting calls from folks around Springfield, MA, and nearby towns like Chicopee who just unboxed a new laptop, tablet, smart home gadget, or gaming system and want to make sure it is set up the right way. New tech is exciting, but it can also be a doorway for cyber threats if you skip a few essential steps. Whether you received a brand-new laptop for work, a smart speaker for the kitchen, or a gaming console for the kids, here are the safe, simple moves that protect your privacy and keep everything running smoothly.
Start with updates before doing anything else.
Every new device should be updated right away. That includes system, app, firmware, and router updates, as well as anything else the device recommends. Manufacturers patch security issues all the time, and your new tech may have been sitting on a warehouse shelf for months. Getting up to date ensures the device starts with its strongest security protections in place.
Secure the device with real passwords, not the ones printed on the box.
Replace default passwords instantly, even if the device seems harmless, like a smart plug or camera. Use a long, unique password for each account and device. If your device connects to an app set, set that account’s password to a strong one as well. Never reuse the same password across your laptop, phone, and smart home gear.
Turn on two-step verification wherever possible.
Many devices now offer a second layer of identity check. It might be a text message, a prompt, an app request, or a security key. Turning it on keeps cybercriminals away, even if they somehow get your password.
Lock down privacy settings right away.
Most devices ask for extra permissions right from the start, often more than they actually need. Review all privacy options, such as microphone access, camera access, location tracking, and data sharing settings. Anything you do not want running in the background can and should be turned off.
Secure your home network before connecting anything new.
A router with outdated firmware or default settings can put every device at risk. Make sure your router is up to date, has a strong WiFi password, and has guest WiFi enabled for visitors. Avoid connecting smart home devices to your primary network if they support separate grouping or device-only modes.
Install trusted security tools.
New laptops and tablets should always have safe browsing protection, antivirus software, and a good password manager. Be careful with free apps or unknown security programs. Stick with trusted names and official app stores.
Understand parental controls before kids start clicking.
If the new device is for a younger family member, be sure to enable time limits, safe browsing, and purchase restrictions. Many gaming systems and tablets now offer detailed control panels that help you manage content without taking away the fun.
Do a final backup plan check.
Every device should have a backup solution ready to go; for laptops, use cloud backup or external storage; for phones and tablets, use their built-in cloud services. For smart home devices, make sure you know how to reset, restore, and recover the device in case of trouble.
Want it done right without the stress.
New tech is fun until the confusing menus pop up. Between updates to privacy settings, network security, and account creation, it is easy to miss something important. Why waste your holiday time wrestling with settings when Bob’s Computer Service can handle it all for you? We set everything up correctly, securely, and ready to use, so your new tech works.
