A brand-new phone, computer, or tablet may feel secure because nobody has used it yet. But new devices still need updates, strong account protection, backups, and a few privacy choices before they are ready for everyday use.
This checklist focuses on the security settings that matter most. You do not need to buy a security product just because the device is new.
What should you do first with a new device?
Connect through a network you trust, install all available system updates, create a strong screen or account lock, protect the main account with two-factor authentication, and turn on backups and recovery features.
New device security checklist
1. Install all available updates
Even a new device may have been manufactured months before you opened the box. Install operating-system and application updates before relying on it for important accounts. Turn on automatic updates when practical.
2. Set a strong device lock
Use a strong PIN or password. On supported devices, fingerprint or facial recognition can add convenience while the PIN or password remains the underlying protection.
3. Protect the main device account
Windows, macOS, Android, iPhone, and other platforms may connect the device to a central account. Use a unique password and enable two-factor authentication.
4. Turn on automatic backups
Set up a backup method you understand before important photos, documents, or other information accumulate on the device. Confirm what is actually included in the backup.
5. Enable lost-device and recovery features
Phones, tablets, and many computers include tools for locating, locking, or recovering a missing device. Set them up while the device is in your possession.
6. Install only the apps you need
Avoid immediately reinstalling every old program or app. Start with software you recognize and still use. Download it through the official app store, manufacturer, or developer whenever possible.
7. Review privacy and app permissions
During setup, apps and operating systems may request access to location, contacts, photos, microphone, camera, advertising settings, or diagnostics. Choose settings deliberately rather than approving everything automatically.
8. Make sure built-in security is active
Modern operating systems include important security features such as firewalls, malware protection, app controls, and encryption options. Confirm that the normal built-in protections are enabled before adding other software.
9. Set up safer passwords
Do not use the new device as an excuse to reuse an old favorite password. A password manager can make unique passwords easier to manage.
10. Turn on two-factor authentication for important accounts
Start with the email account associated with the device, then protect financial, shopping, social-media, cloud-storage, and other important accounts.
11. Connect carefully to Wi-Fi
At home, connect to your own secured network. If you are setting up the device elsewhere, avoid performing sensitive setup on a network you do not trust when a safer option is available.
12. Remove unwanted trial software
Some new computers include programs you do not need. Remove unnecessary applications carefully, but do not delete software merely because you do not recognize its name. Check its purpose first.
New Windows or Mac computer checklist
- Install all operating-system updates.
- Set a secure sign-in password or PIN.
- Confirm the firewall and built-in security protections are active.
- Set up automatic backups.
- Update the web browser.
- Remove software you know you do not need.
- Protect the main Microsoft or Apple account with 2FA.
- Install programs only from sources you trust.
New phone or tablet checklist
- Install all system updates.
- Use a strong screen lock.
- Protect the Apple or Google account with 2FA.
- Turn on automatic backups.
- Enable lost-device features.
- Review app permissions.
- Install apps through the official app store when possible.
- Check notification and privacy settings.
Your 30-second new-device check
- Updates installed?
- Strong screen/device lock?
- Main account protected with 2FA?
- Backup working?
- Lost-device feature enabled?
- Built-in security active?
- Only needed apps installed?
Do you need to buy antivirus immediately?
Not necessarily. Modern operating systems include built-in security protections, and the right choice depends on the device and your needs. Begin by enabling and updating the protections already included. Additional security software can be useful for some people, but it is not a substitute for updates, account security, backups, and safe browsing.
What should you do with the old device?
Make sure needed information has been transferred and backed up. Sign out of important accounts and follow the manufacturer's instructions for securely erasing or resetting the old device before selling, donating, recycling, or giving it away.
What not to do
- Do not skip updates because the device is new.
- Do not reuse one password across all of your accounts.
- Do not install “security” software from pop-up advertisements.
- Do not approve every privacy permission automatically.
- Do not erase the old device until you have confirmed that important data was transferred or backed up.
How do you know the new device is ready?
The device should be fully updated, protected by a strong lock, backed up, connected to a well-protected main account, and running only software you intentionally installed or understand.
The Know Phishing takeaway
Before settling into a new device: update it, lock it, protect the main account, back it up, enable recovery features, control your apps, and use the built-in security protections already available.