Laptop setup tips for new students: Easy steps to get ready for school

Starting a new academic journey is exciting, and having a reliable, well-configured laptop helps set you up for success. Whether you're unboxing a brand-new device like a Surface Copilot+ PC or giving your current one a fresh start, this article will help you get your laptop school-ready, with quick steps for productivity, smooth studies, and secure data.

1. Power on and sign in

When you unbox and first turn on your Surface Laptop or Surface Pro, Windows 11 guides you through setup:

• Choose your language and region
• Connect to Wi-Fi
• Sign in with your Microsoft account

You also have the option of getting started instantly with Windows Hello¹, which enables facial recognition or Fingerprint ID to make sign-in fast, secure, and password-free. With Windows Hello, Surface Copilot+ PCs can automatically log you in when you approach and sign you out when you walk away, helping protect your device and data without interrupting your flow.

Tip for first timers: If you're learning how to operate a laptop for the first time, start by exploring Windows 11's Start menu. It's where you'll find your settings, apps, and File Explorer.

2. Install must-have apps for school

Your Surface is optimized for Microsoft 365², which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote—all tools helpful for school success. With built-in AI from Microsoft Copilot, these apps work even harder for you. For example:

• OneNote helps organize class notes and sync across devices.
• Copilot in Word can help generate outlines and summarize research.
• Copilot in Outlook can help simplify scheduling and email communication.
• Microsoft Teams supports video conferencing and virtual collaboration.

Tip: Get these apps set up early—your Microsoft 365 subscription may even be included with your school email account!

3. Learn how to operate your new laptop

• Use the touchscreen or trackpad gestures to navigate
• Try voice typing or digital inking with the Surface Slim Pen
• Explore Tips in the Windows 11 Start menu for quick tutorials
• Use built-in accessibility tools that support a wide range of learning needs

4. Use AI to save time and stay organized

The Surface Laptop keyboard and Surface Pro detachable keyboards³ include a dedicated Copilot key⁴ for instant access to your AI companion. Whether you're prepping for class or collaborating on a group project, Copilot can help you:

• Summarize long email chains
• Generate quick study notes
• Translate content in 40+ languages

Tip: Open Copilot and ask it to help build a study schedule based on your class timetable.

5. Set up cloud backup for peace of mind

School life can be unpredictable—make sure your files are backed up automatically. Surface devices come with Microsoft OneDrive built in, which offers secure cloud storage and access to your files from anywhere.

Tip: First, sign in to OneDrive with your Microsoft account. Then, enable folder backup to automatically sync your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders. This way, if your device is ever lost or damaged, your files stay safe and can be restored to any device.

6. Update, secure, and protect your laptop

Before diving into coursework, it’s important to make sure your Surface device is fully updated and protected. Updates ensure you have the latest features, performance improvements, and security patches:

• Check for Windows updates in Settings > Windows Update.
• Install the latest Surface firmware and drivers to keep your device running smoothly.
• Enabled by default, verify that Microsoft Defender Antivirus (built into Windows 11) is turned on for real-time protection.

Tip: Copilot can guide you through the setup process for updates, backups, and security settings—just ask it, “How do I secure my laptop?”

7. Enable accessibility features

AI-driven features help break down barriers and make it easier for all students to participate fully. For example, Surface devices include tools like Live Captions5, which generates subtitles in real time and can translate live or pre-recorded speech from 40+ languages into English. These features not only support hearing-impaired students but also help everyone stay focused during online lectures or when reviewing recorded sessions.

Start the school year strong

A well-prepared laptop can make all the difference in your academic journey. With the right setup—apps, security, cloud backup, and AI tools—you’ll be ready to tackle assignments, collaborate with classmates, and stay organized from day one.

Surface Copilot+ PCs are designed to help you do just that—smarter, faster, and more securely. Explore Surface and find your AI-powered study companion today.