Windows First Time Computer Setup

Questions

  • How do I set up my new Bowdoin-issued Windows computer for the first time?
  • What do I do when my new Windows laptop starts up for the first time?
  • I received a Windows computer that is not a CAP replacement — how do I get it configured?
  • How do I sign in to a new Bowdoin Windows computer using Microsoft Autopilot?
  • How do I install software on a new Bowdoin Windows computer?
  • What apps are pre-installed on a new Bowdoin Windows computer?
  • How do I restore my files to a new Bowdoin Windows computer using Druva inSync?
  • What is Company Portal and how do I use it to install apps?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin faculty and staff setting up a Bowdoin-issued Windows 11 computer that was not received through the Computer Allocation Program (CAP) process. The computer must be connected to the Bowdoin campus network during initial setup. For a new CAP computer, see Windows First Time Setup: New CAP Computer in the Related Articles section instead.

Resolution

Step 1 — Set Up Windows and Sign In

You must be connected to the internet to complete this process. Connect your laptop to the Bowdoin campus network using an Ethernet cable before starting. A wireless connection will also work, but a wired Ethernet connection is preferred for speed and reliability.

The first time your computer starts, Microsoft Autopilot (Autopilot) walks you through the steps needed to enroll the device and configure your account.

  1. At the sign-in screen, enter your full Bowdoin email address (for example, jsmith@bowdoin.edu).
  2. Bowdoin's Okta sign-on page will appear. Sign in with your Bowdoin credentials and complete two-factor authentication.
  3. If you see an Other user login screen, sign in with your username only — without the @bowdoin.edu portion.
  4. Once the desktop appears, your computer will continue to configure itself in the background and may prompt you to install updates. Wait approximately 15 minutes before continuing to the next step.

Step 2 — Install Apps from Company Portal

The following apps are automatically installed on your computer: Microsoft Office, OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, Druva inSync, PaperCut, and Global Protect (VPN).

Additional Bowdoin-approved software can be self-installed using Company Portal. See Company Portal in the Related Articles section for instructions on how to use it.

  • A list of software installed on your previous computer was provided to you — only reinstall software you plan to use regularly.
  • If software you need is not available in Company Portal, a Service Desk technician can install it during your scheduled appointment.
  • If administrator credentials are required to change a setting or install an application, use the Make Me Admin app. See Make Me Admin for Windows in the Related Articles section.

Step 3 — Restore Your Files and Launch Apps

After Druva inSync has completed restoring your files, restart your computer. Then launch and sign in to the following frequently used apps:

  • Outlook — See How to setup Microsoft Outlook for Windows for Bowdoin email in the Related Articles section.
  • OneDrive — See How to setup the OneDrive sync client in the Related Articles section.
  • Microsoft Teams — See How to log in and get started with Microsoft Teams in the Related Articles section.
  • Adobe Creative Cloud — See Accessing Adobe software on a Bowdoin computer in the Related Articles section.
  • Default programs — See Setting up a default email client in the Related Articles section.
  • Printers — See How to install or delete a Bowdoin printer in the Related Articles section.
Need help? Contact the technician assigned to your ticket, or reach the Service Desk using the options below.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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Related Articles (7)

Accessing Adobe software on a Bowdoin computer
This article describes how to self-service install the Adobe Creative Cloud on your Bowdoin owned computer, sign-in and then install the Adobe applications you wish to use.
Company Portal
Company Portal is an application that allows Windows users to install Bowdoin-issued and approved software on their own.
Standard Computer Hardware Offering
Describes the standard computer hardware options available to Bowdoin faculty and staff, including current MacBook Pro and Dell Latitude laptop configurations, what peripherals are included, and how to request additional items. For full-time faculty and eligible staff. Annual review required — hardware specs must be updated each fiscal year.
Windows First Time Setup: New CAP Computer
Step-by-step guide for setting up a new Bowdoin Windows 11 computer received through the CAP program. Covers confirming data backup, connecting peripherals and monitors, logging in, restoring data with Druva inSync, installing apps from Company Portal, configuring core apps including PaperCut and OneDrive, and scheduling a follow-up with IT.