What is the first step to take before installing a new plug-and-play sound card on your Windows system?

Before installing a new plug-and-play sound card on your Windows system, the very first step should be to check the Hardware Compatibility List (HCL) for device compatibility. This is essential because the HCL provides a list of hardware components that have been tested and certified to work with your particular version of Windows. Ensuring compatibility with the sound card will help prevent potential issues during installation and operation, such as driver conflicts or the device not being recognized by the operating system.

Furthermore, if you confirm that the sound card is compatible, you can then proceed with the installation confidently. Familiarizing yourself with system requirements and compatibility clears the way for a smoother setup process and enhances the likelihood of proper functionality after the installation.