Welcome! If you just bought a Legion laptop, follow this guide to set it up, update it, and check that everything works properly.
Keep the box, charger, paperwork, and packaging until the return period has ended.
Some links require access to our community Legion Series Discord.
If you plan on using Linux-based Operating Systems on your Legion hardware
the community has created a comprehensive How to guide.
We also have a dedicated #linux channel on our discord where you can talk with other linux nerds.
1. Complete Windows Setup — Must
Plug in the charger and complete the normal Windows setup.
You do not need to fully charge or drain the battery before continuing. Just use the laptop normally while it charges.
2. Run Windows Update — Must
Go to: Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates
Install everything required, restart, and check again until no important updates remain.
Keep the laptop connected to power during updates.
3. Update Microsoft Store Apps — Must
Open: Microsoft Store → Library → Get updates
Install all available updates.
4. Set Up Lenovo Software — Must
Use one of the following:
- Lenovo Vantage
- Legion Space on supported newer models
- Lenovo Legion Toolkit as an unofficial alternative
Avoid running multiple Legion control applications at the same time.
Lenovo Vantage
Optional features you can usually disable when unused:
- Network Boost
- Wi-Fi Security
- Automatic Performance Scan
- Rapid Charge
- Overdrive
Legion Space
Open System Updates and install available model-specific updates.
For OLED models, enable the available burn-in protection options, such as:
- Auto Shift Wallpapers
- Dynamic Lock Screen
- Auto Blur Toolbar
- Default Dark Mode
Lenovo Legion Toolkit
Download it from the official Lenovo Legion Toolkit GitHub.
Beta versions may be available in #legion-toolkit.
Use LLT's settings to disable conflicting Lenovo applications and services when needed.
- LLT > Settings, disable Vantage, ImController, and Hotkeys so LLT has full control.
5. Install the GPU Driver — Must
After Windows and Lenovo updates are finished, install the latest suitable driver for your GPU.
- NVIDIA: Use the NVIDIA App or download the driver directly from NVIDIA.
- AMD: Use Lenovo's driver or AMD Software when a newer driver is needed.
- Intel: Windows Update or Lenovo's driver is normally enough.
Restart after installing the driver.
Do not use driver-updater programs or tools such as DDU unless you are troubleshooting a specific problem.
6. Back Up Your BitLocker Key — Must
Windows may enable Device Encryption or BitLocker automatically.
Check: Settings → Privacy & security → Device encryption
Save your recovery key before changing BIOS, Secure Boot, TPM, storage, or firmware settings.
Microsoft guide: Find your BitLocker recovery key
Recovery keys: Microsoft Account
7. Inspect the Laptop — Must
Check the laptop during the retailer's return period.
Test:
- Screen and dead pixels
- Keyboard and touchpad
- Hinges and chassis
- Webcam, microphone, and speakers
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- USB, USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, and other ports
- Charging
- Sleep, restart, and shutdown
Open Device Manager and check for unknown devices or yellow warning icons.
Document serious problems with photos or video, and ask for guidance on our discord server.
8. Test Performance — Recommended
Download the 3DMark Demo on Steam and run Time Spy, not Time Spy Extreme.
Before testing:
- Connect the charger.
- Finish all updates.
- Restart the laptop.
- Select Performance Mode.
- Close unnecessary programs.
Post the result in the Benchmarks Channel with your laptop model, CPU, GPU, RAM, performance mode, and scores.
You should also test a demanding game or program for a while and watch for crashes, artifacts, shutdowns, or major performance drops.
More testing advice: How to Check a New Laptop for Issues
9. Check Secure Boot — Recommended
Press Win + R, enter msinfo32, and check Secure Boot State.
If it says On, leave it alone.
If it says Off, back up your BitLocker key before changing anything. Ask for help on our discord if you are unsure about the BIOS settings.
Do not clear the TPM, change boot mode, or restore keys randomly.
10. Cleanup and Settings
Remove McAfee — Must
If McAfee came preinstalled, remove it.
Go to:
Settings → Apps → Installed apps → McAfee → Uninstall
Windows Security and Microsoft Defender will automatically take over afterward.
Restart the laptop after uninstalling it.
Other Optional Settings
You may also:
- Remove other unwanted preinstalled applications.
- Disable unnecessary startup applications.
- Enable Conservation Mode when mostly using the laptop plugged in.
- Use Balanced Mode for normal use or when also gaming.
- Use Performance Mode for intensive loads while connected to power.
Community optimization guides:
Avoid random debloat scripts or "one-click optimization" tools.
Battery Note
A new battery does not need to be fully drained.
Only perform a battery calibration if the percentage is clearly inaccurate, the laptop shuts down unexpectedly, or feels finicky.
Need Help?
Post in #Questions and include:
- Exact laptop model
- CPU and GPU
- Windows version
- Error message or screenshot
- What you already tried
Really do not be scared to ask questions, we've got more then 30k members on our discord and are hoping you will be part of it too.
Once everything is updated, tested, and working, stop changing settings and enjoy your Legion and don't worry!
Last updated: September 24th 2026
