New Windows laptop, desktop PC or MacBook? AgeHelper helps you unbox it, set up everyday programs, move important files and photos from your old computer, reconnect your printer and learn the new system at your own pace.
Schedule Setup Assistance ($50/hr)A new PC or Mac should be exciting, but first-time setup can mean unfamiliar accounts, confusing subscription offers, software choices and concern about losing years of personal files.
New Windows laptops and Macs ask about Wi-Fi, privacy, accounts, updates, cloud storage and more. We explain each screen and help you choose supported options that fit your needs. Some Windows setup versions require an internet connection and Microsoft account; we do not promise to bypass mandatory steps.
We also help organize your new sign-in information securely. Learn about password management.
Some new PCs include trial antivirus, games or promotional utilities that create extra notifications and subscription offers. With your permission, we identify unnecessary apps, remove them where safe and supported, check built-in security features and simplify the desktop without removing essential drivers.
For suspicious pop-ups or infections on an older device, see virus and pop-up removal.
We help identify your family photos, letters, tax files, downloads and bookmarks, then choose a suitable transfer method such as an external drive, supported cloud service or migration tool. We copy important information to the new computer and check files with you before considering any changes to the old machine.
Transfers depend on the condition of the old device and the files available. We cannot promise that damaged, missing or encrypted information can always be recovered. Computer data transfer help.
New displays can make text, buttons and icons feel very small. We can adjust screen scaling, font size, pointer settings, keyboard and accessibility features to improve everyday comfort for older adults. We organize the apps you use most without unnecessary clutter.
For more hands-on practice, see one-on-one computer lessons.
From opening the box to using email and printing documents, we guide you through the process and explain the important decisions in plain English.
We unpack the desktop, laptop, MacBook or iMac, connect the power cable and compatible monitor, mouse or keyboard, organize the cables and help position the equipment comfortably. We can also discuss safe placement and basic cable organization.
We review supported account choices, sign-in methods, privacy options and unwanted promotional offers. We help connect to Wi-Fi, check operating system updates and set up available security features such as Windows Hello, Touch ID or a suitable passcode, depending on the device.
We can install or configure your preferred browser, including Chrome, Firefox, Edge or Safari, restore available bookmarks, and help sign in to Gmail, Yahoo, AOL or another email service with your authorization. We also move supported personal files and configure useful everyday programs.
We organize simple shortcuts for Email, Internet, Photos and Documents, show you where your files are saved and practice the tasks you use most. We can write down large-print steps for future reference.
The new computer is most useful when it connects to your existing devices, familiar applications and important memories.
A new computer may not automatically recognize an older printer. We connect it to the household Wi-Fi network, install compatible printer drivers and test printing when supported. For more complicated issues, we offer wireless printer setup and Wi-Fi troubleshooting.
Before donating, recycling or selling an old computer, personal information should be removed appropriately. After checking that needed files have been copied, we can discuss a separate secure data wiping and electronics recycling service. We never erase the old device without your specific approval.
Whether you're moving from one Windows laptop to another, switching between Macs or moving from Windows to Mac, we can review compatible transfer options. Apple Migration Assistant and backups may help with supported Mac transfers; individual Windows applications may need to be installed again or replaced with Mac alternatives.
We help review available external-drive and cloud backup options, install useful compatible software and explain optional subscription offers. Microsoft 365 is not required simply to use a Windows computer; your preferred Office apps may have separate licensing requirements.
$50/Hour
Patient assistance with a new Windows PC or Mac at home in Greater Austin. The total time depends on updates, file sizes and your old computer's condition. Contact us about availability, your setup goals and any potential additional costs before scheduling.
Ask About a Home Setup VisitWe also help older adults with slow computers, printers, home Wi-Fi, smartphone setup and personal technology lessons.
Practical answers about choosing, setting up and transferring files to a new computer in Austin.
AgeHelper does not sell computers. You can purchase a Windows PC or Mac before the visit, or contact us first for help comparing models based on your needs, accessibility preferences and budget.
We help identify important files and use supported transfer or backup methods. We verify transferred items with you and keep the old device unchanged unless you separately authorize another service. Transfers depend on the old device, storage, encryption and file condition, so no technician can guarantee that every item is recoverable.
Windows 11 setup requirements vary by edition, device and version. Current Windows setup generally requires an internet connection, and consumer editions may require a Microsoft account during initial setup. We guide you through supported setup options, privacy choices and local-account options where officially available; we do not promise to bypass required security checks.
No subscription is required merely to use Windows or macOS. Microsoft 365 desktop apps may require a license or subscription, but free web apps and other compatible productivity tools may fit your needs. We explain optional offers and help you avoid accidental purchases.
Yes. We can connect the new computer to your home Wi-Fi, add a compatible printer, install supported drivers and test printing. Older printers may not support the latest operating systems.
Often yes. Depending on the devices and their condition, we can use compatible external drives, cloud services or Apple Migration Assistant. Some Windows programs, licenses and settings will not work on a Mac and may need alternatives.
Time depends on the number of devices, Windows or macOS updates, internet speed, the amount of data and the health of the old computer. A basic setup may be quicker than a large or difficult migration. We discuss priorities before beginning.
The advertised AgeHelper rate is $50 per hour. Contact us to confirm availability, what you need done and any potential additional costs before scheduling.
Patient, friendly technology help in Greater Austin. Tell us about your new device and what you want to transfer.