Setting up your new PC or Laptop

Have you recently purchased a new PC or laptop? If you have, you’ve probably already realised that there’s quite a bit of work to be done getting properly set up (and your old files moved across). Many new systems also need you to go through a “complicated” setup process which can be daunting for many. Sadly, SeniorNet can’t offer this type of service but we know who does…

Regardless of where you purchased your new computer, both Noel Leeming and Harvey Norman offer a commercial service whereby they come to your house and set everything up for you (at a fixed price). If you’re new to PCs or just nervous about getting started, we strongly recommend that you take advantage of this service. It will cost you a little extra over and above the cost of your new PC but in our view, this is money well spent. Don’t forget to mention that you’re a member of SeniorNet Kapiti and show them your membership card to get their “best price”.

Members wanting to bring their own laptops to our classes must make sure that their machine is properly set up and everything is working. If the Lead Tutor is not satisfied that these items are in place, they will ask you to use one of our PCs for the course. We are not able to spend time fixing member’s laptops during classes – sorry.
If you wish to use your PC at the Learning Centre, the following must be working…

Compulsory:

• Operating System must be fully installed (the “startup” process mentioned above)
• WiFi working
• Internet access working (using Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, Safari or Opera browser)
• Virus checker working and up to date (Microsoft, AVG, Avast, Trend Micro, Norton or similar)

Optional, but highly recommended:

• Windows Updates turned on and up to date
• Email set up and working
• Adobe Acrobat Reader installed
• Access to a Live Account (required for Windows 8 only)

All these items should be covered by the commercial Service Call from Noel Leeming or Harvey Normal mentioned above.

And remember, once you’re all set up and working, you can take advantage of our regular “How do I….?” Workshops to get help with problems and issues (but not full system setups!).

See you soon at Kapiti SeniorNet.