Windows default apps to choose after installing a new computer setup

Checking Which Apps Come Preinstalled

Once you finish your computer setup and see the desktop, open the Start menu and go through the full app list before installing anything. That list probably holds more than you expect. Manufacturers and Microsoft pack trial software, branded tools, and promotional games into the install. Most people scanning their own new machine don’t realize what is running behind the app launcher until they remove a few glossy-sounding utilities and watch Storage free up.

Look for words like trial, free for a limited time, or get started right inside the app tile name. Those almost always end in a subscription nudge or pop-up. Trial antivirus, photo editors, or an office sticker collection that you never plan to use should be removed now while the system still feels fresh. That removal does not come back as bloat later, and you reclaim the resource budget without effort.

Choosing a Web Browser That Fits Your Habits

One of the first things many people do after setting up a new Windows computer is install their preferred web browser. Although Microsoft Edge comes preinstalled and works well for everyday browsing, it isn’t necessarily the best fit for everyone. If you’ve been using another browser for years, switching back to it can make the new computer feel familiar almost immediately because your bookmarks, saved passwords, and browsing history can usually be synced in just a few minutes.

Before downloading anything, think about how you normally use the web. Some people care most about privacy, while others rely on browser extensions for work or prefer a browser that syncs smoothly across multiple devices. Browsers like Firefox, Brave, and Opera each have their own strengths, so it’s worth comparing their features instead of choosing one simply because someone else recommended it.

When you’re ready to install a browser, always download it from the developer’s official website. It’s a small step, but it helps you avoid outdated installers or download sites that bundle extra software you never intended to install. During the setup process, take a quick look at each screen before clicking Next. Some installers may offer to change your default search engine or include optional software. If those extras aren’t something you want, simply clear the checkboxes before continuing.

Once the installation is finished, make the browser your default if you plan to use it every day. That way, links you open from email, chat apps, or documents will launch in the browser you expect instead of switching back to Edge every time.

Adding a Reliable Media Player for Common File Types

Another program that’s worth installing early is a reliable media player. The built-in player included with Windows is perfectly fine for common audio and video files, but sooner or later you’ll probably come across a format that it can’t open properly. This often happens with videos recorded on newer phones, camera footage, downloaded movies, or high-quality music files.

Rather than searching for additional codecs every time a file won’t play, many people install a media player that already supports a wide range of formats. VLC Media Player is a popular example because it can open most video and audio files straight after installation, including formats that often cause problems in other players.

After installing your media player, it’s a good idea to test it with a few different files instead of waiting until you really need it. Try opening a video with subtitles, a music file, and another video recorded on your phone. This quick test lets you confirm that everything works as expected and gives you a chance to explore a few useful settings, such as playback speed, subtitle controls, audio adjustments, or hardware acceleration if your computer supports it.

If you’re comparing different media players, keep the overall experience in mind rather than looking only at the feature list. A good player should open files quickly, play them without unnecessary setup, and stay out of your way. Be cautious of programs that fill the screen with advertisements, ask you to create an account before you can watch a local video, or push paid upgrades for basic playback. For most people, a simple player that works reliably is a much better choice than one packed with features they’ll never use.

Setting Up a PDF Reader for Documents and Forms

Microsoft Edge can open PDF files, but it lacks advanced features such as filling out forms, adding signatures, or organizing pages. Contracts, manuals, or scanned documents that you work with regularly require a dedicated PDF reader to make those tasks easier. Adobe Acrobat Reader is the most common option, though it includes some background services and update prompts that may slow down older computers.

Lighter alternatives such as SumatraPDF or Foxit Reader open PDFs quickly and include basic annotation and form-filling tools. After installing one, set it as the default PDF viewer in Windows settings so double-clicking a PDF opens your chosen reader instead of the browser. Rare PDF use may be handled by the built-in Edge viewer, but for frequent use a dedicated reader reduces loading time and offers more control.

FAQ

Question: Should I remove all preinstalled apps even if I might use them later?
Answer: No, keep apps you recognize and plan to use within the first week. Remove trial software, duplicate tools, and promotional games. You can always reinstall a removed app from the Microsoft Store or the official website if needed later.

Question: Which browser is best for privacy on a new Windows computer?
Answer: Browsers such as Firefox or Brave offer built-in tracker blocking and private browsing modes. Check the privacy settings after installation to enable strict blocking, disable telemetry, and clear cookies on exit. No browser is completely private by default, so review each setting yourself.

Question: Do I need a separate antivirus if I install a third-party browser and media player?
Answer: Windows Defender is usually sufficient for most home users when combined with safe browsing habits and regular updates. Third-party antivirus programs often slow down the system and show upgrade prompts. Stick with Defender unless you handle sensitive data or download files from untrusted sources frequently.