How to Set Up an Android Phone

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

This guide works with most Android devices but focuses on Smartphones.

  1. To begin, insert your SIM card if your cellular carrier did not already install it.
The top of an android device showing the SIM card slot and the sim card removed


  1. Plug your phone in to give it a charge.
An android device being charged


  1. Turn your phone on by pressing the power button on the side.
An android device showing the power button on the side

2. Select Language

  1. When your phone turns on for the first time it will greet you with a Welcome screen.
  2. On the Welcome Screen, select your preferred Language.
Android welcome screen with english selected

3. First Connection to Wi-Fi

  1. Next you'll be given a list of available Wi-Fi networks.
  2. Select your Network from the list and type in your password.
Android first time set up showing selection of Wi-Fi networks

4. Google Account Sign In

  1. In order to use the Google Play Store, you'll need to have a Google Account.
  2. Type in your Google Account Credentials and Accept the EULA.
Android first time setup showing how to add a google account

5. Backup and Date

  1. Switch Automatic Backup to On.
Android menu showing auto backup as on
  1. Adjust the date and time accordingly.
Android menu showing date and time

6. Security

  1. You can choose to secure your device by adding a PIN. Check the box if you wish to do this.
Google account setup to protect your phone


  1. Tap require PIN to start device.
  2. Type in your PIN.
Google account setup to secure your phone with a pin

7. Create Google Account

  1. In order to use the Google Play Store, you'll need to have a Google Account.
  2. If you do not have a Google Account you can easily create one.
  3. Tap Or Create a New Account.
Create a new google account


  1. Type in your First and Last Name.
Google account fields for first and last name


  1. Choose and Type in your new Username.
Google account username selection


  1. Type in your chosen password.
Google account password fields


  1. Input a cellphone number to use it as a recovery number.
Google account recovery phone page


  1. Accept the EULA.
Google account EULA


  1. That's it! You have a new Google Account and can use the Google Play Store!