• advice for setting up a new windows computer

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    #2763616

    Hell0 – I’m sure this topic has been covered before but I’d appreciate a pointer to the right spot.

    I am primarily a Mac user but am about to purchase a new Windows desktop computer to run some apps that are only available on Windows.  I don’t want to mess with a dual boot type solution, and won’t do much if any important work on this computer, so advanced security measures or cloud integration, etc.  aren’t that important.

    Assuming this computer comes preloaded with Windows 11, what is the recommended procedure for configuring the new system – such as removing Microsoft (or other) bloatware, disabling Copilot, etc.

    Thanks in advance.

     

     

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    • #2763747

      You could run Windows on your Mac via Parallels. Saves space and power, not to mention hassle.

      cheers, Paul

      • #2763755

        I run Win8.1 and Win10 in Parallels VMs on Intel-based Macs. I run Win11 on ARM in Parallels VMs in M1, M2 and M4 Apple Silicon based Macs.

        Windows in a Parallels VMs on Apple Silicon requires Windows 11 on ARM. The Windows Apps that @routtco1001 intends to run must have an ARM version in this case.

        If that is not the case, an Intel or AMD based Windows desktop would be a better choice because Intel-based Macs are on the way out. The last are 9th generation Intel.

        I would recommend Win11 Pro with a Local ID, unless the Programs needed require a Microsoft ID. Group Policy (available in Pro but not in Home) allows control of Windows Update without having to add third-party software.
        As for Security, I run Defender as my A/v, but others here also run a second security software such as Malwarebytes or Bitdefender.
        Most of the Windows UWP Apps can be removed using the Command Prompt and/or PowerShell. I do not use them and have removed most from my installations. As for vendor installed OEM software, they can also be removed if you don’t need them. For the most part, I use non-Microsoft software: Firefox, Libre Office, free Adobe Reader, VLC Player, etc. One thing I use that I wouldn’t give up is StartAllBack software to alter the Win11 Menu/Taskbar/Explorer appearance.

        Steps to take: Install Win11 (using a Microsoft ID or bypassing it to create a Local ID). Install backup/image software. Make a full disk image as a base. Go through the Settings App, Control Panel, and Group Policy (if you have Pro) to control security and appearance. Install the Apps you need/want. Make a second full disk image as a second base point. Start using your new computer.
        One thing you need to address early on – Win11 will encrypt the device by default. How you deal with this will depend on whether you want/need decryption AND whether or not you use a Microsoft ID or Local ID.

         

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