What should be the initial step when disassembling a computer?

The initial step when disassembling a computer is to disconnect the power cord and batteries. This is crucial for safety to prevent electrical shock and protect the components from power surges. Ensuring that there is no electrical power running to the computer eliminates the risk of short circuits and accidental damage while you work on it.

Opening the case, removing the hard drive, or unplugging peripherals are tasks that come afterward. They should only be performed once it is confirmed that the computer is completely powered down and disconnected from any power source. Starting with this safety measure ensures that the rest of the disassembly process can be done with a lower risk of injury or damage to the hardware.