A server technician is installing a new server and configuring the newly installed OS. Which of the following steps should be performed FIRST after booting the OS?

Creating a backup is an important step but should occur after the system is initially configured and secured, not as the very first action after booting the OS.

Before connecting a newly installed OS to a network or domain, it is critical to address fundamental security concerns such as applying updates, configuring firewalls, and setting strong passwords. Default OS installations often lack robust security configurations, making them vulnerable if immediately exposed to external networks.

Connecting to the network before addressing security concerns exposes the unhardened OS to potential vulnerabilities and attacks from the network.

Joining to the domain typically requires network connectivity and should only be performed after the OS has been secured and basic network configurations are in place.