Remove the [dot] in the links, I'm not allowed to post URLs yet. It seems Microsoft has added a new way of creating installation media. go[dot]microsoft[dot]com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=510815 Compared to the original method it seems to have the following advantages: You can select the architecture (x86/x64), language and edition that you want to download. You don't have to enter the product key to download (at least not when running it on 8.1, haven't tested on earlier versions). The installer now accepts Windows 8.0 product keys (both retail and OEM). You no longer have to upgrade via the Windows Store or use a generic key. Source: neowin[dot]net/news/how-to-create-windows-81-install-media-if-you-lost-your-install-disk