Steps to set up new desktop

[synthetic_crazy]

Our new desktop arrived yesterday and I will be setting it up sometime during the next few days.

I have a question regarding when the proper time would be to connect to the internet. I'm thinking that I will get the keyboard, mouse, monitor plugged in and then turn the system on to set up the user accounts etc. Then once I have those established I will plug the Ethernet into the system from our wired router and connect to the internet. The instructions that came with the computer show plugging the Ethernet in before booting the system for the first time. My concern is that I may receive a virus during the initial setup before I can download virus protection. I may be over-thinking this...

So, when is the appropriate time to plug the Ethernet in? (We don't use a wireless network, just the old fashioned wired router from the DSL modem)
I appreciate your suggestions very much.

 

[Eddie]

Plugging in the Ethernet is not the same as connecting to the Ethernet.

 

[fxrider]

correct. just dont click on internet explorer until you are ready.

 

[yonyon]

Connecting to the Internet also will allow you to get software updates. Software updates can include security updates so there's that...

If you're that concerned, use your old computer to put AV software on removable media with up-to-date definitions and use that before you hook up your network.

 

[itguy08]

Windows? There's always a chance to get infected prior to loading AV on Windows...

That being said, plug it in, boot up and update ASAP. That should get you as protected as you can with Windows.

 

[OVERKILL]

You are over thinking this significantly.

Setup the computer. Run Windows Update. As long as you aren't googling porn, you'll be fine.

 

[synthetic_crazy]

Thank you to all for the replies. I am grateful for how helpful everyone is here on BITOG. We have such a wealth of knowledge and being able to access that is a true blessing.

 

[bubbajoe_2112]

Originally Posted By: OVERK1LL
You are over thinking this significantly.

Setup the computer. Run Windows Update. As long as you aren't googling porn, you'll be fine.


^^^^ Bingo.

 

[jjcom]

I wouldn't be too worried about getting a virus during setup. Provided the system is remotely up to date, it shouldn't be an issue. There's only one time I had a system get a virus during setup, it was while installing Windows XP, with no service packs/updates, and I've setup a lot of systems for people.

 

[uc50ic4more]

Originally Posted By: bubbajoe_2112
Originally Posted By: OVERK1LL
You are over thinking this significantly.

Setup the computer. Run Windows Update. As long as you aren't googling porn, you'll be fine.


^^^^ Bingo.


Symantec released a paper not too long ago that says porn sites are safer than religious ones:

http://www.hardocp.com/news/2012/05/03/porn_sites_safer_than_religious_web

... Which links to the pdf: http://www.symantec.com/content/en/us/en...39364.en-us.pdf

No wonder there's no RSP allowed here!

 

[OVERKILL]

LOL!

 

[97tbird]

I knew it!