Start off by gently unpacking and removing your new iMac from the box and place it on a stable surface such as a computer table or the floor.  Ensure that you have a good grasp as you remove it from the box.  If you're new to the Mac, you'll immediately appreciate Apple's attention to detail, Apple's packaging is always a work of art.

Gently remove any plastic or protective packaging from the iMac and cords.  Verify that the box contains everything as described in the "What's in the Box" on the box label.  If anything is missing or your computer is damaged, contact Apple support.

Plug it in
Plug in the power cord to the power port on the back of the iMac by passing it through the hold in the stand.  Plug the other end into a functional electrical outlet.  (We recommend that you use a surge protector for your Mac and any peripherals connected to your Mac.  The cost of a surge protector is a small price to pay in the unfortunate event of a power surge)

Connect the Mouse and Keyboard
Connect the mouse to a USB port on the keyboard.  Then connect the keyboard to one of the USB ports on the back of the iMac.  Note that if you purchased an Apple Wireless Keyboard and Apple Wireless Mouse with your iMac, a different procedure will be required as they rely on Bluetooth to communicate with your iMac.  Just follow the instructions that came with them to perform the setup.

Internet Connection
You'll need either a high speed or dial-up connection to access the Internet.  Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the iMac's Ethernet port.  Connect the other end to either a cable modem, DSL modem, or network device such as a router.  If you have a dial-up connection, you'll need to connect your iMac to your phone line using the optional Apple USB Modem

Power Up
After verifying that all the connections have been made and your iMac is securely connected to a functional electrical outlet, turn on your iMac by pressing the power button which is loacted on the back of the iMac.

Setup Assistant
Your iMac will be booted for the first time since leaving the factory.  The Mac OS X Setup Assistant will start and will guide you through a series you of screens to setup your iMac.  Review the Mac OS X Setup Assistant Guide for details.

Start Using Your iMac
That's it.  The initial steps to setup your iMac are now complete.  We recommend that you take some time to perform some additional steps prior to using your Mac.