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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesOn a new Windows 11 laptop, start by reviewing app permissions, startup launches, OneDrive backup choices, default apps, background activity, and personalization. These are preferences, not universal switches: change the settings that fit how you use the PC, and check the labels on your Windows build because some paths vary.
What should I change on my new laptop?
Use this first-pass checklist to make the laptop behave the way you want. The steps below focus on Windows 11 Settings and built-in tools; they do not assume that every app should be blocked or every recommendation disabled.
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- Review which apps can use sensitive capabilities such as the camera, microphone, or location.
- Stop recognized apps you do not need from launching automatically at sign-in.
- Choose which folders and settings Windows Backup should sync through your Microsoft account.
- Set preferred apps for the file types and links you use.
- Balance background updates and notifications against battery use.
- Review optional recommendations and device-usage personalization.
Review privacy permissions
Open Start > Settings > Privacy & security, then select a capability such as Location, Camera, Microphone, Contacts, or Calendar. Review access at both the device and app level where those controls are available. Restricting access can reduce exposure, but it can also stop a feature you expect from working.
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If an app you use does not appear in a list, that does not necessarily mean it has no access. Microsoft notes that desktop apps may not appear in the Windows app-and-service lists and are not affected by the setting that controls app access to a capability. Check the app’s own privacy settings as well; do not assume a Windows toggle blocks every desktop program. Microsoft’s explanation of Windows privacy settings describes this distinction.
#1 Best Overall
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
How do I stop apps from opening on startup?
Review apps that launch when you sign in, and disable only entries you recognize and do not need immediately. This can reduce startup clutter, but an app you disable may no longer be ready as soon as you log in.
- Open Start > Settings > Apps > Startup, then switch off an app you do not want to launch automatically; or
- Right-click Start, open Task Manager, and select Startup apps. Review the listed impact categories to help prioritize which entries to investigate.
Task Manager’s startup-impact label is a prioritization aid, not proof that an app is safe to remove or unnecessary. Some applications also use Startup folders, so not every automatic launch is necessarily represented by the same control. Microsoft’s startup-app guidance explains the built-in management options.
How do I back up my new PC?
Windows Backup can back up selected Windows settings and user folders, with folder syncing handled through OneDrive. Before relying on it, confirm which folders are selected and that your Microsoft account has available OneDrive storage. Syncing chosen folders provides account-based continuity, but it is not automatically a complete, independent backup of everything on the PC.
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- 256 GB SSD of storage.
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- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
- Open Start > Settings > Accounts > Windows backup.
- Review the settings and folder backup options shown for your account.
- Check which of Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music are selected for OneDrive folder sync.
- Verify available OneDrive space and consider whether the selected folders match what you want associated with your Microsoft account.
Personalization backup requires signing in to OneDrive and having storage available. Options may depend on the device or account. See Microsoft’s Windows Backup instructions and OneDrive folder backup guidance for the documented options.
Set preferred default apps
Open Start > Settings > Apps > Default apps. You can select an app and adjust the file or link types it opens, or choose a particular extension or link type and assign its default. For example, make changes to browser, email, media, or document associations only where you have a preferred app; there is no need to change defaults you are happy with.
Microsoft’s default-app instructions describe both approaches.
Rank #3
- WINDOWS 11 | STABLE PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 system, this laptop delivers stable performance for everyday computing tasks. It supports web browsing, online learning, document editing, email communication, and basic office work with optimized power efficiency, providing a practical and reliable experience for essential daily use for daily use.
- 15.6” FHD IPS DISPLAY: Features a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with narrow bezels, offering wider viewing angles and clearer image details compared to standard panels. The improved screen-to-body ratio enhances visual experience for study, reading, document work, and video playback, making it suitable for both productivity and entertainment use.
- 4GB DDR4 + 128GB eMMC STORAGE: Equipped with 4GB DDR4 memory and 128GB eMMC storage for everyday basics such as browsing, documents, email, and online learning platforms. The built-in TF card slot supports storage expansion up to 1TB, giving you more flexibility for files, photos, videos, and daily documents. TF card not included.
- CONNECTIVITY & PORTS: Includes 1× TF card slot, 2× USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, and 2× full-featured Type-C ports (USB 3.2 Gen1). The Type-C ports support data transfer, charging, and video output, enabling flexible connection with external devices such as monitors, storage, and peripherals for daily work and study use.
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN | ONLINE COMMUNICATION: Designed with a slim, portable profile, this laptop is easy to carry for school, commuting, and travel. A built-in 1MP front camera supports online classes, video meetings, remote communication, and everyday conferencing. The 3300mAh battery works with the low-power system design to support practical daily use, while thermal optimization helps maintain quieter operation during extended tasks.
Review background activity
For supported apps, go to Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps, open the app’s more-options menu, choose Advanced options, and review Background app permissions. The documented choices are:
| Choice | What it means | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Always | Allows the app to keep doing work in the background. | Can support notifications and periodic updates, but may use more power. |
| Power optimized | Lets Windows balance background work against power use. | Microsoft’s recommended option for this setting; some background activity can continue. |
| Never | Stops background activity for that app. | Can reduce background work, but may prevent timely notifications or updates. |
This control is available for supported apps; desktop apps may not expose it. Avoid setting every app to Never as a blanket battery fix. Microsoft’s background-activity guidance describes the options.
Review recommendations and device-usage personalization
Windows can use optional settings to tailor tips, recommendations, and ads. The labels and layout can vary by Windows 11 release: Microsoft says the older General privacy page is being replaced by Recommendations & offers in newer releases. Documentation for the General page describes options such as app launch tracking and suggested content, so do not rely on that older name appearing on every PC.
For usage-based suggestions, open Start > Settings > Personalization > Device usage. Review the available categories and select only those that reflect how you use the device. Microsoft says selected choices can lead to tailored tips, recommendations, and personalized ads, and that you can change the choices later. See Microsoft’s privacy settings overview and device usage settings guidance.
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