When you purchase an iPad and boot it up for the first time, Apple will ask you to register the device. Now, you don’t necessarily have to register your device in order to use it. Even if you don’t, you can still download apps and take full advantage of your tablet’s capabilities. Basically, registration helps if your device is lost or stolen, and also helps Apple keep you up to date with the latest software updates and product releases.

Registration is an incredibly simple process that only takes a few minutes to complete. Here’s how to do it:

Go to Apple’s product registration website.

Here, you’ll be asked to choose your location and set your preferred language from two drop-down menus. After you do this, the site will prompt you to log in with your Apple ID credentials. If you don’t have one, go ahead and create one.

Select the number of products you’d like to register (probably just one) and then click Next.

On the next screen, you’ll be prompted to select the device you wish to register. Select “iPad” from the categories list. Be sure to specify whether you have a Wi-Fi or 3G model, and then click “Continue.”

Figure out your iPad’s serial number. These are always printed on the back of the tablet, right below the product details.

To finish things up, just indicate how you will use the device and set your location. Click “Continue” to complete your iPad’s registration!

Now that you’re all registered, be sure to check out our Best iPad Apps, Best iPad Games, Best iPad Cases, and Best iPad Accessories lists.