iMac Fast Start: The New User's Guide to iMac

1) Plug In the Power

Carefully remove your iMac from the box and place it on a sturdy table or work surface. Thread the power cord through the hole in the stand and connect it to the power port on the back of your computer, then plug the other end into a working electrical outlet.

2) Connect Your Devices

Connect the mouse to a USB port on the keyboard and then connect the keyboard to one of the USB ports on your iMac. If you purchased an Apple Wireless Keyboard and Apple Wireless Mouse with your iMac, please see the instructions that came with them to set them up with your computer or see the Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Support page for instructions. If you have Internet access, connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the computer's Ethernet port and the other end to a cable modem, DSL modem, or network, or connect your phone line to a dial-up external modem then plug into the iMac built-in USB port.

3) Turn It On and Set It Up

After confirming that your iMac is connected to an electrical outlet, press the power button on the back of your iMac to turn on your computer. The first time you turn on your iMac, the Setup Assistant will appear and walk you through setting up your account. If you have another Mac, the Setup Assistant can also help you automatically transfer files and other information from your old Mac to your new one. If you prefer, you can do this later with Migration Assistant (find it in the Utilities folder inside of the Applications folder). For more information, please see the manual that came with your iMac.

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4) Have Fun!

Once you're up and running, you're free to get to work or go have some fun. If you're a brand new Mac user and haven't a clue about what to do now, our Mac 101 series of fun, online courses will help you learn how to use your Mac and all of the applications that came with it, including Mail (for email), Safari (to browse the web), iTunes (to play music and more), and iPhoto (to view, edit, and share your pictures). And if you're a switcher, be sure to check out Switch 101—Mac 101 for former PC users.

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5) Learn More

The following contains lots of information that will help you enjoy your Mac to its fullest.

Get the latest iMac Manual Turn on automatic Software Updates Check out these Quick Assist topics and triumph over your troubles Got the basics mastered? Give Mac Higher Learning: The Next Steps a try

Need Help?

Be sure to visit our iMac and Mac OS X Support pages to learn more about using your iMac, troubleshooting issues, and getting service and support. And if you need assistance, consult with other users and experts in our Apple Discussions forums—you can ask a question, answer a question, or simply read what others have to say.

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Our video tutorials are a great way to get started with all of the iLife applications that come with your iMac—iPhoto, GarageBand, iTunes, iMovie HD, iDVD, and iWeb. Discover all the fun that can be had with your music, photos, movies, opinions, and more.