Set up your Surface

Set up a Microsoft account if you don't already have one

Get free online storage, an online password reset for your Surface, and more with a Microsoft account. All you need to get started is an email address. 

Create a Microsoft account

When your Microsoft account is set up, you can back up any Windows device you used before. Then, on your new Surface device, restore the backup so you can quickly have your familiar files and more.

Create a backup to transfer to your new Surface device

If you're moving from a Windows PC to a new Surface device, Windows Backup makes it easier than ever. On your previous PC, open Windows Backup to back up the things you want to keep. After the backup is complete, you can use it as you set up your new Surface. Just restore the backup on the new device. For more, see Back up your Windows PC. 

Set up Windows Hello

Get instant access to your Surface with Facial recognition (Windows Hello) or Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello). Here's how to set it up:

1. Go to Start  > Settings  > Accounts , and under Account settings, select Sign-in options .

2. Select Facial recognition (Windows Hello) or Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello), then select Set up.

Turn on Find my device

When you set up a new device, you can decide to enable the Find my device feature. If you didn't initially turn it on or want to confirm it is enabled, make sure your Surface is connected to the internet, has enough battery power so it can send its location, and that you're signed in with your Microsoft account.

1. On the device that you want to check:

   1. Select Start  > Settings  > Privacy & security  > Find my device.

Open Find my device settings

For more information, see Find and lock a lost Windows device

Confirm you're up to date

You can quickly check the health of your Surface drivers and firmware using the Surface app.

Open the Surface app

1. In the Surface app, expand Help & support to check the update status.

2. If there are updates available, select the Check for updates button to open Windows Update and install the available updates. 

   Note: If you don't have the Surface app installed, you can download the Surface app from the Microsoft Store. When it has downloaded, select Start, search for Surface, then select the app from the list of results.

Learn about the Microsoft Complete Protection Plan

Keep your new Surface up and running with accidental damage protection from drops, spills, and cracked screens. With Microsoft Complete, if something goes wrong, you’re covered, simple as that.

For more info, go to Microsoft Complete Protection Plan.

Stay protected with Windows Security

Windows Security is included on your device and provides the latest antivirus protection. Your device will be actively protected from the moment you set it up. It continually scans for malware (malicious software), viruses, and security threats. Updates are downloaded automatically to help keep your device safe and protect it from threats.

For more info on running your own virus scans, go to Stay protected with Windows Security.

Power cord care

Power cords, like any other metal wire or cable, can be weakened or damaged if repeatedly twisted or bent in the same spot. Here are a few things you can do to keep your power cord from being damaged:

Avoid twisting or pinching your power cord - Don't wrap your power cord too tightly, especially around the power brick. Instead, wrap it using loose coils rather than tight angles. 

Inspect your power cord regularly, especially where it joins the power brick - Avoid pulling on the power cord when unplugging your Surface. Gently removing the connector from the charging port can help prevent damage to your power cord. 

Take care of your touch screen

Scratches, finger grease, dust, chemicals, and sunlight can affect your touchscreen. Here are some tips to protect it:

• Clean frequently. The Surface touchscreen is coated to make it easier to clean. You don't need to rub hard to remove fingerprints or oily spots. Use a soft, lint-free cloth (either dry or dampened with water or eyeglass cleaner—never glass or other chemical cleaners) or a screen cleaning wipe to gently wipe the screen.

• Keep it out of the sun. Don't leave your Surface in direct sunlight for a long time. Ultraviolet light and excessive heat can damage the display.

• Keep it covered. Close the cover when you're taking your Surface with you or when you're not using it.

For more info on maintaining your Surface, go to Clean and care for your Surface.