Many Nokia feature cell phones and early smartphones have the ability to connect to a desktop computer or a laptop in order to back up information collected on the phone into the computer, configure certain options, transfer media files like music and digital photographs, synchronize settings, and even connect to the Internet in some cases. Nokia PC Suite is the default software package to accomplish these tasks, although as of 2010 many Nokia models are only able to connect to a PC or laptop through the upgraded Ovi Suite.

Depending on the Nokia model and the operating software, the firmware and OS can be updated with an installed copy of the software, a USB data cable or a Bluetooth connection. Upon downloading and installing, users can connect their cell phone and wait for Nokia PC Suite to allocate the correct drivers for connectivity and functionality. The graphical user interface is a no-nonsense affair of colorful icons that perform as expected. At its most basic, Nokia PC Suite provides tools for file transfer and backup, but some handset models will allow users to synchronize their calendars and contacts, install third-party apps, download music, and establish a wireless broadband connection over EDGE or 3G networks -an activity commonly known as tethering.

Unlike other cell phone manufacturers, the Finnish mobile giant did not put a lot of weight behind marketing of the Nokia PC Suite. Still, the software is powerful and very useful in the sense that it allows users to extend the functionality of their phone to work as a web camera or as removable storage. While Nokia PC Suite was eventually forgotten in favor of the Ovi Suite and its different stores for apps, music and other digital content, owners of legacy Nokia phones can still download, install and take advantage of the software.