When setting up a new desktop, which of the following should be performed FIRST?

Configuring user accounts is a software-based step that can only occur after the computer is powered on and the operating system is running, which requires cables to be plugged in first.

Plugging in cables is the fundamental first step when setting up any new desktop computer, as it ensures the device receives power and that peripherals like the monitor, keyboard, and mouse are connected. Without physical connections, none of the other configuration steps can be performed.

Installing security software is an important post-setup task for protecting the system, but it cannot be done before the computer is physically set up and operational.

Configuring wireless network settings requires the computer to be powered on and often necessitates a keyboard and mouse (which are connected via cables) to interact with the operating system, so cables must be plugged in first.