Both techies and end users alike give props to Apple for their foolproof setup process; Macs are pretty much plug-and-play right out of the box. Apple has designed a setup wizard that allows almost anybody working on the Internet in a matter of minutes and the iMac is no exception. Most of the steps are basic stuff, but sometimes some of the more subtle processes are missed.

1. Set up your Mac by connecting the power cord and plugging the mouse into the keyboard into one of the USB ports on the back of the computer. If you have a wireless mouse and keyboard, they both need to be powered on. Press the power button the right side of the keyboard and power on the mouse using the button on the bottom of the mouse. Press the power button on the back of the iMac and you’ll be prompted through Apple’s setup wizard.
2. Step 2

   Decide whether you need to transfer any data, applications or settings from your previous Mac, if applicable. If so, then select “From Another Mac” in the wizard when prompted. Boot up your old Mac holding down the “T” key until the FireWire logo appears on the screen and then connect the two Macs with a FireWire cable. If you’re not migrating any data, then select “Do not transfer my information” and continue with the wizard.

3. Step 3

   Register your iMac when prompted, and then create a user name and password for yourself. Next you’ll be asked how you want to connect from the Internet. If you choose wireless connectivity, a list of networks within range will be displayed, but you’ll have to know the correct password to connect to it. If you’re going to be hardwired to a network, then plug in an Ethernet RJ-45 cable to your iMac’s network jack (located on the back of the machine) and connect the other end to a network jack or plug directly into the router.

4. Step 4

   Install any software that you own. The most common software packages used on Macs are Microsoft Office, Quicken and Adobe Creative Suite, but there are hundreds of other titles. You’ll also want to download any important freeware from the Internet, including Adobe products (Reader, Flash Player and Shockwave Player) as well as Firefox and RealPlayer.

5. Step 5

   Launch a Web browser to confirm you’re connected. Then run the “Software Update…” command, which is found under the apple in the upper left corner of the screen. Reboot if prompted, and repeat until the “Your software is up to date” message is displayed.

6. Step 6

   Open System Preferences to finish configuring your new iMac. To add a printer, click on Print & Fax and then click on the plus (+) icon in the lower left corner of the pane and highlight the printer in the list and select “Add.” The other preferences you should change are Sharing (both printer and file sharing), your sleep mode settings (Energy Saver), desktop picture and screen saver display (Desktop & Screen Saver) and connecting your smart phone (Bluetooth).