First PC Boot Guide: BIOS Setup and Installing Windows
Your new PC still needs a few important setup steps after assembly. This guide explains how to complete the first boot and prepare the system for everyday use.
Check the First Display
Connect the monitor to the graphics card if your PC has a dedicated graphics card. Press the power button and watch for the motherboard logo or setup screen.
If there is no display, switch the computer off and recheck the power cables, memory installation and monitor input.
Enter the BIOS
Press the setup key shown on screen during startup. Common keys include Delete and F2, although the exact key depends on the motherboard.
Inside the BIOS, confirm that the processor, memory and storage drive are detected.
Recommended BIOS Checks
- Confirm the CPU temperature is reasonable.
- Check that all installed memory is detected.
- Confirm the boot SSD appears in the storage list.
- Set the correct date and time.
- Enable the memory profile supported by your system if desired.
- Set the USB installation drive as the temporary boot device.
Good practice: Avoid changing advanced BIOS settings unless you understand what they do. Incorrect settings can prevent the computer from starting normally.
Install the Operating System
Create an official installation USB drive, connect it to the new computer and follow the setup instructions. Select the correct SSD during installation and allow the system to restart when required.
Install Drivers and Updates
After the operating system loads, install motherboard chipset drivers, network drivers, audio drivers and graphics drivers. Then install available operating system updates and restart the computer.
The Bottom Line
A successful first boot confirms that the core hardware is working. BIOS checks, operating system installation and driver updates complete the setup process.
