This guide is for customers who purchased a new or refurbished computer from Pinedale Computer, or who had Windows freshly installed. It will help you get comfortable with your computer and establish good security and privacy habits from day one. Most people are up and running in ten to twenty minutes – and if you ever have questions, call or stop by!
If Pinedale Computer set up a local user account for you, skip the First Things section and go straight to Checking Suspicious Files.
First Things
If Pinedale Computer transferred data to this computer, skip to Disable Startup Applications.
When you first power on your computer, Windows will walk you through an initial setup. Microsoft will offer several optional features and services — we recommend declining all of them for better privacy and security.
Disable Startup Applications
Several applications bundled with Windows start automatically in the background, slowing your computer without your knowledge. We recommend disabling:
OneDrive, Edge, Teams, Phone Link, and Mobile Devices. You can ignore other items on the list.
Note on OneDrive: If you actively use Microsoft cloud storage, leave OneDrive enabled. |
Steps:
Right-click the Start button (the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner) or Task Bar, then select Task Manager.
Click the Startup apps tab. (If you don’t see tabs, click the three stacked lines in the top-left corner first.)
Right-click a program you want to disable, then select Disable.
Repeat for each of the programs listed above.
Reducing the number of apps that run at startup keeps your PC more responsive.
Checking Suspicious Files
Though a good anti-malware prevents many attacks, there are some practices you can adopt to improve you security, such as manually checking files from unconfirmed or suspicious sources. Two such practices are explained below.
Previewing Files with Preview Pane
Single-click any file in File Explorer. If it’s a document or image, the Preview pane on the right should display its contents.
If a supposed document shows no preview, treat it with caution – it may not be what it appears. Keep in mind that not all legitimate files will preview (for example, ZIP archives, some Office formats, or less common file types). A blank preview is a reason to pause, not automatic proof of malware.
⚠️ When in doubt, don’t open it. Contact us and we’ll take a look. |
File Name Extensions
File extensions tell you what type of file something is. A few examples:
Documents: .docx, .pdf, .txt
Images: .jpg, .png
Videos: .mp4, .mov
Installers/Programs: .exe, .msi
⚠️ Warning: If a file is supposed to be a document, picture, video, or audio file but its name ends in .exe or .msi, it is very likely malware. Do not open it – seek advice from a professional first. |
If you avoid downloading files from unknown or suspicious sources, you’re already well-protected. If you’re ever unsure about a file, ask us before opening it.
Safe Browsing & Password Security
Most threats today arrive through our activity on the internet through web browsers. A few simple habits go a long way.
Safe Browsing
Be skeptical of unexpected popups – especially ones warning about viruses or urging you to call a phone number. Scammers often try to scare you in various ways.
Never call a phone number displayed in a browser alert. These are nearly always scams.
Never allow remote access to your computer unless you personally initiated a support call. Keep in mind that you should never contact support through popups. Find contact information another way.
Double-check that a website address looks correct before entering passwords or payment information.
Password & Account Security
Use a different password for each important account (email, banking, shopping).
Consider a password manager to securely keep track of your passwords, such as Bitwarden.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever it’s offered — especially for email and banking accounts.
Protecting Your Data
A new computer is the perfect time to start a backup habit. If your hard drive fails – and eventually they all do – a backup means you won’t lose photos, documents, or other important files.
We recommend:
An external hard drive or personal file server for local backups (fast, reliable, no subscription).
A remote backup, such as a second hard drive at a family member’s home or a cloud backup service. See our Partners page for a recommended provider.
We carry and can set up backup solutions for you, including business data backups. Contact us for help with your best solution.
Default Programs
Computers from Pinedale Computer come with privacy-respecting alternatives to Microsoft’s bundled software. Microsoft’s apps remain installed, but these are set as your defaults.
Brave Browser
Brave Browser protects your privacy better than other mainstream browsers. Occasionally a website won’t work as expected, and Brave will typically prompt you to install a compatibility add-on to fix it. You can also temporarily switch to Firefox, Chrome, or Edge for those rare cases. The minor occasional inconvenience is well worth the improved privacy and security. This protects you and your family.
Betterbird Email
Betterbird works similarly to Microsoft Outlook. Open it and enter your email address and password to get started.
If you’ve forgotten your email password, we can help you with the account recovery process.
ESET Anti-malware (Antivirus)
ESET provides top-tier anti-malware protection and is installed as a fully functional trial. 1-, 2-, and 3-year licenses are available, covering one or more computers. Each computer that you protect also offers additional coverage for Android devices (phones & tablets). Contact us to purchase a license.
VLC Media Player
VLC plays music and video in virtually any format. It looks a little dated, but it’s reliable and works well.
Other Software
We’ve vetted affordable options for data backup, PDF editing and creation, and Microsoft Office. Tell us your needs, and we’ll help you meet them.
Additional Resources
Many Windows 11 tutorials are available online. A great starting point is searching for beginner Windows 11 tutorials on YouTube.
Warranty
Pinedale Computer warranties only our labor. Hardware warranties vary by device type:
Device Type | Typical Coverage |
New & Manufacturer Refurbished Computers, Mobile Devices, Larger Peripherals (Printers, Monitors, more) | 1- year OEM warranty, from date Pinedale Computer received the item(s) |
3rd-Party Refurbished Items | 1- year All State warranty, from date Pinedale Computer received the item(s) |
Storage Drives | 3 or 5 years (replacement drive only, labor & data recovery not included) |
Used Components & Devices | No warranty |
Other Devices | Varies – ask us |
About All State warranties: You file a claim, pay for the repair, then get reimbursed by All State. Pinedale Computer can manage this process for you for a handling fee. |
Need Help?
We’re here for you after the sale. We can assist with:
Account recoveries
Printer setup
Data backup setup
Software installation (antivirus, Office, and more)
Training on your new device
Any question that comes up
Call: 307-231-5094
Visit: 269 Cole Avenue, Unit C, Pinedale, WY 82941
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9AM–5PM