So before anyone mentions it, yes I really did want to put Linux on it (MX Linux is my current favorite), but the person it’s for is not very computer savvy and I don’t feel like doing tech support, so fuck it, they can keep using Windows.
But before I hand it off, I was wondering what else I should install (and/or what stupid Windows settings to disable) to make it as usable and secure as reasonably possible.
So far I’m thinking Firefox + uBlock Origin, and maybe Avast unless someone has a less annoying free antivirus.
I think Firefox + uBlock origin is a good shout. I personally would not bother with an antivirus; leave Microsoft Defender to it.
In terms of other software, it very much depends what it’s being used for. I’d probably put Sumatra PDF on there and make it the default (to prevent some of Edge’s shenanigans), LibreOffice (to ease opening random docs/xls, if you’ve not got Microsoft Office to install in your work), Notepad++ just because it’s quite good (and won’t have MS shitty AI unlike Notepad), VLC incase anyone needs it for basic media consumption, maybe a video conferencing tool if you use them (Zoom? Teams? Slack?), Paint.net as it’s a pretty good image tool for those random times you need to mess with images - way better than MS Paint and much easier for basic stuff than GIMP.
In terms of Windows settings, I’d google Win 11 privacy settings and follow the steps. It changes so often, but it is worth going into the settings and trying to limit the snooping and privacy problems as much as possible.
You should consider what Microsoft Account to link with the computer (if any) in case the laptop is stolen - both so you don’t have your own personal account on there but also so you can use tools like “Find my device” and lock the device remotely.
And if you don’t want to be tech supporting this, then honestly I wouldn’t donate this. It’ll always come back your way unfortunately.
These are all good suggestions. I hadn’t seen Sumatra PDF before, I think I’ll put that on my own PC too.
Use Ninite to install everything, will make your life easier
Hit up Ninite.com and pick some good pieces to install. Put the installer in a saved location then put a shortcut to it in the startup folder. (Start the run command with winbutton+r then put in shell:startup) This will ensure each time the user starts up the main things get updated.
That’s one thing I did for my parents and siblings so I didn’t have to update the software all the time
I know that doesn’t help with your request but figured it’s one thing that might help you not have to play tech support.
That’s a clever idea, a great way to ensure they’re keeping lots of core software up to date. Although I imagine it could be a bit annoying Ninite popping up every time you log in, but it’s for the greater good!
The greater good!
At time of not shutting down for long periods yes it is annoying because there are lots of updates. Most of the time it’s super quick.
Oh this is pretty cool! Thanks!
Chris Titus has a PowerShell tool that will go through and tidy up a lot of windows bullshit and let you install some useful commonly used applications.
Oh, yeah, this could come in handy.
Google’s Chrome OS might be a decent choice for a giveaway laptop (even though Google is shitty with privacy, the apps are familiar).
Or Ubuntu with Firefox and Steam, maybe Good Old Games installed. Do you really need antivirus on consumer Linux installs like Ubuntu?