Getting a new gaming console is exciting, but unwrapping it on Christmas only to face hours of updates and setup? Not so much. To avoid delays and frustration, follow these steps to prepare your console in advance. With proper preparation, your console will be ready for gaming as soon as it’s unwrapped and hopefully thwarting any anti-climax!
Why Prepare in Advance?
Modern consoles like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch often require lengthy updates and installations during the initial setup. Here’s what you might encounter if you leave it until Christmas Day:
System Updates: These are essential to ensure the console is running smoothly and securely. Depending on your internet speed, they can take a long time.
Game Updates: Even physical game discs often need additional downloads or day-one patches.
Account Creation: Setting up profiles, parental controls, and subscriptions (like PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass) can take time.
Slow Internet Speeds: Christmas is a high-demand day for gaming servers, and other devices in your home (like TVs streaming festive films) may slow your connection
Your Pre-Setup Guide
Step 1: Unbox the Console
Carefully unpack the console and all its accessories. Save the box and packaging materials to re-box the console later for a perfect “new gift” look.
Step 2: Connect Power and Internet
Plug the console into the mains and connect it to your home Wi-Fi. For faster downloads, connect via Ethernet if possible.
Ensure your internet connection is stable and has enough speed for large downloads.
Step 3: Update the Console
Turn on the console and follow the initial setup instructions on-screen.
Navigate to the System Settings and check for updates.
Download and install any available updates. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours depending on file size and connection speed.
Step 4: Install Games
For physical games, insert the disc into the console and let it install.
For digital games, redeem any codes and download the titles from the console’s store.
Check for updates or patches for each game, as these are often required before playing.
Internet Speed Tips
A slow connection can make the setup process and updates drag on unnecessarily. Here’s how to optimise your network to improve it with minimal barriers:
Pause Streaming Services: Avoid using Netflix, YouTube, or similar apps on other devices during the setup.
Minimise Network Usage: Disconnect unnecessary devices from your Wi-Fi while the console is downloading updates.
Check Your Wi-Fi Signal: Move the console closer to your router or use a Wi-Fi extender if needed.
Run a Speed Test: Make sure your connection is adequate for handling large downloads.
Tips for Christmas Morning
Power On Early: Turn the console on briefly before the big unwrapping to ensure there are no last-minute updates, many others may also be trying to update first thing Christmas day too which can slow down the manufacturer's servers and networks.
Charge Controllers: Make sure all controllers are fully charged and ready to use.
Verify Games: Double-check that all games are installed and working.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Slow Updates: Restart your router, prioritise the console’s connection in your router settings, or switch to a wired Ethernet connection.
Account Issues: Have passwords for existing accounts to hand and check that subscriptions are active.
Parental Controls Overly Restrictive: Adjust the settings in the console’s menu if needed.
Avoiding Slow Updates
Keep in mind that consoles often install updates in the background, but running other devices like TVs or tablets on the same network can slow things down. Keep your network as free as possible during setup to ensure smoother downloads.
By taking the time to prepare in advance, you can at least prepare and hope for a stress-free Christmas morning with the console ready to go from the start. We can help with how well users may get on with their new games, but we can help with the technical side! Happy gaming and have a wonderful Christmas!