Installing Vista x64 on new laptop

I have recently purchased a new Zepto 6625WD without an OS as I have an OEM version of Vita Ultimate x64.
Not having ever installed an OS before onto an OS-less PC before, I wondered if there are any hints/tips/suggestions you think I should do to ensure that Windows will run as efficiently as possible for me?
I have read the tweaks thread and plan to install things like CCleaner (I think It was called that) as well as doing some of the other suggested tweaks.
Thanks for your help and please excuse my inexperience!

 

The things you want to make sure you FIRST do is install all your latest drivers for your laptop (chipset, network, audio, video, etc.).

Programs I use to "optimize" my OS's are CCleaner, Defraggler, and Tune-Up Utilities 2007.

I also have security software such as Spybot - Search & Destroy, SpywareBlaster, Advanced Spyware Remover Pro, and my integrated Comcast IE toolbar (with a spyware scanner as well). I use AVG Anti-Virus Professional as well.

-Mike

 

My way of installing OEM windows is as follows:
If you have another machine that can connect to the internet (not your new Zepto) then I'd download AVG anti virus or another well known free anti virus program of your choice plus some anti spyware software and put it on a USB stick drive.

Then I'd install Vista and then AVG + anti spyware. I'd only connect to the internet after I'd got some anti virus/spyware on the machine and ensured the Windows Firewall With Advanced Security is switched on (you can find it under administrative tools) free 64bit firewalls are still hard to come by at the moment Vista 64 bit Comodo Firewall should be out soon though.

Once you've done that I'd run Windows update to install all the latest critical patches & security updates (I wouldn't bother with the other updates just for now).

After that I'd go find any up to date drivers Zepto are offering and finally go install the other Windows updates.

Well it's worked for me so far and I've used that routine since 2k. Good luck and enjoy your nice new Zepto!

 

Thanks! I will download all the updates onto my old laptop (which I am using now...and to be honest is in pretty good nick for a 4.5 year old one...) as you suggest. As far as anti-virus software is concerned, is it really vital if you don't visit dodgy sites/download dodgy stuff??? I don't have a choice in the matter as my college network forces a download and installation of sophos, which I will stick on my new lappy, but I have had no protection on my current one (apart from a spyware scan) for a year now with no problems...

 

stevey - don't forget the SATA drivers if you intend to upgrade your drive. Otherwise I think you'll be fine.

 

Thanks - I'm guessing this will all be on the zepto website drivers page?

I just got in touch with them and they said the only thing I might have to do when it arrives is enable ahci. Anybody know off-hand if this is difficult to do? I will google it I think...

 

I think the enabling AHCI they're referring to is in the bios