Do I need to install Adobe Reader to view PDFs?

The HP laptops already have Adobe Acrobat Pro installed, so installing Adobe Reader is NOT necessary. In order for the Adobe PDF plugin to work (so that you can view PDF files directly in your browser), you need to first open Adobe Acrobat from your Programs menu and "Agree" to the license.

Beware: If you ever DO install Acrobat Reader on another computer (or have done so by accident), it may install a copy of McAffee Antivirus as well. Having more than one antivirus program running can slow down you computer and/or cause other problems, so it is best to avoid this (uncheck the box during the installation) or uninstall McAfee (Control Panel --> Programs and Features)