I have read many posts stating that the current MSDN and Partner MAK keys are not working with 8.1 Pro/Ent. I stupidly upgraded my laptop anyway and am now stuck with an inactive installation. It isn't the end of the world but I was wondering what the hold up is with legitimate MAK keys not activating if anyone knows for sure. Is it the fact that 81 uses a new authentication process (v6) or has MS not turned on the key compatibility with their servers. Since I am trying to activate our MAK keys to test some of our software I am not using a KMS server. Thanks for whatever you can tell me.
Simple (speculation on my part) answer: Windows 8.1 will have different MAK keys and will never work with Windows 8 MAK keys. It's only a free upgrade to retail users. Volume License customers also must have software assurance to get new KMS and MAK keys.
We are both stuck, I think MS will have something come official release in OCT. At least that is what I am hoping for, I (the company) will not pay for new keys for 8 -> 8.1. That is ridiculous
Neither will I, I think it is outrageous that MS didnt allow us early access to test. we are in the middle of a bunch of upgrades on our software here and I would love to know if things will be compatible.
You upgraded with leak build not with released build & this time M$ will show cards on release with major bug fixes.... So wait till then....
Microsoft calling this as free upgrade but only for retail users not for enterprise customers what about the users those who have paid $$$$ and doesn't renew their agreement. But, It could be anything as you said or MS doesn't open the Servers for Legitimate MAK/KMS Key users. I have tried for both Windows 8.1 Enterprise and Server 2012 R2 but with no luck. Will have to wait till it shows up in VLSC, when Win 8 released last year MAK/KMS keys appeared first hope it will be same this time. I guess once it is officially released on VLSC / MSDN / Technet existing VL customers may have an option to upgrade their product via store and obtain a new key. Also it could be a bug too. If the enterprise customers have to pay for 8.1 and 2012 R2 then Microsoft shouldn't call this as free upgrade. Let's hope for the best. Nobody has nothing to loose. But my friend manage to activate it.
Just installed Windows 8.1 Enterprise (x86) but I can't activate I see your friend screenshot and I want to do the same I have MAK KEY + Phone activation key for Windows 8 Enterprise (x86 + x64), but doesn't working for Windows 8.1 Enterprise How can I activate without ISO modification and other hard steps ?