⚠️This is not comprehensive. There are other better guides. This is more for me.⚠️

Windows

Windows is at the top because I’m always rebuilding a Windows machine. My latest rebuild was becasue, for no real reason– Windows Installer decided it could no longer bear to install Windows programs. And it’s faster to rebuild then debug.

In fact, I can feel the instalation of Windows I’m typing on now crumble as you read this.

Prep

  • Create bootable restore media. I prefer to use vendors' tools for this (i.e. the respective Dell or Lenovo tool). You get a better image for your machine.

  • Backup anything you want to keep. (Side note: if this is when you are backing up, you are doing it too late.)

  • F-12 is the boot command you’re looking for. Format everything. Install on fresh partition.

  • Offline account

Setup

❗❗❗ VERY FIRST THING AFTER BOOT ❗❗❗

  • Create restore point. (windows + restore). You could be seconds away from configuration tragedy, and this is your one res.

  • Run Windows update and turn on auto-updates

  • Encrypt your disk. Turn on Bitlocker (windows + “bitlocker”).

  • Make sure AV and Firewall are turned on (windows + “firewall”)

  • Disable remote access if you can (windows + “remote settings”)

  • Enable “night light” on schedule (windows + “night light”) to reduce blue lights at night

The Downloads

Here’s the usual suspects for me:

Remap Caps lock to escape

  • Download AutoHotKey

  • Create capslocktoescape.ahk with the contents

Capslock::Esc
  • Add shortcut to C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup so it reruns after every startup.

WSL2 Setup

If you plan on coding on your machine, WSL is a must. I’m not going to walk through the whole setup, because it chances constantly. Even though notes I add now, you should question.

  • Start with installing VSCode (+ immediatly install VIM plugin)

  • wsl --install

  • Make sure you are using the latest version (which right now is 2) wsl --set-default-version 2

  • wsl -l -v and confirm everything looks correct.

  • Boot Ubuntu and try a code . and make sure VSCode boots.

Helpful references:

Other devices

In the future I should add: OSX, iPhone, Android.