Hello, I have my W8 key. I would like to install W8.1. Is there any way to install using my W8 key? Or the just way that there is, is updating via windows store? If another day I want to install windows 8.1 again... Do I have to first install W8 and then update to W8.1?? I hope there is some way to do it, otherwise, its so stupid!! Thanks
Yes of course you can install 8.1 using your 8 key, just use the available 8.1 Generic keys to install and later use your 8 key using the elevated command prompt and activate. Cheers
This has been answered innumerable times but still 1. Install win 8.1 with generic/trial key 2. Activate online with 8 key. Can use cmd too but the traditional online method in control panel/system also works as well. Do it again for future installs. Your 8 key is good for 8.1 through store upgrade and iso fresh install (using 8.1 generic key).
You cant install 8.1 by typing 8 key at install screen but you can activate with it in windows. There is the difference.
you can use the 8 key but need to ship around using gerenic key first and then use your 8 key for activation. Direct input of 8 key doesn't work. If you input generic key when prompted you can overwrite it with your 8 key and install. This is a funny way to do but it works and activates online. No need to wait until installation is finished and use cmd or such
As a matter of safety for windows install, I prefer not to input/activate my key till the system is nearly fully built up and acronis image is to be taken (3-4 hours). I have had experiences of botching up windows/software install and losing one activation. That was however in the past before I became a member of MDL and got hold of ATM (Joshcell) Anyway thanks for the above method too.