Carrying out a Windows installation has never been easier, and in this article, we will delve into the steps required to install Windows 8.1 Pro comprehensively. Windows 8 focuses more on touchscreen devices, but it can also function on conventional computers. It is a quick and more reliable operating system that is easy to use even for first-time users. Here is a detailed guide on how to install Windows 8.1 Pro.
Step 1: Obtain a copy of Windows 8.1 Pro
The first step is to acquire a copy of Windows 8.1 Pro Installer, which can be downloaded from the Microsoft website. The ISO file has a substantial size of approximately 3.8 GB, so it’s recommended that you use a download manager to ensure a stable internet connection throughout the process.
Step 2: Create a bootable USB drive or DVD to Install Windows 8.1 Pro
Once you have downloaded the Windows installation files, the next step is to create a bootable USB drive or DVD. Here is how to do it:
Create a Bootable USB Drive
To create a bootable USB drive, you need a minimum of 8GB USB drive. Attach the USB drive to your computer, and follow these steps:
- Launch the Command Prompt using the Run as Administrator command.
- Type “diskpart” and press enter. This will launch the Diskpart utility.
- Type “list disk” command to display all drives connected to your computer.
- Note the number of the USB drive that you’re using. For instance, if your USB drive is Disk 1, then the result of typing “list disk” would be:
- Disk 0 – Hard drive 1TB
- Disk 1 – USB Drive 8GB
Create a Bootable DVD Disk
To create a bootable DVD disk, follow these simple steps:
- Insert a DVD blank disc into your PC’s DVD or CD-ROM drive.
- Locate the Windows 8.1 Pro ISO file that you downloaded earlier and right-click it.
- From the context menu that appears, select Burn disk image.
- Select the DVD drive and confirm to start the burning process.
- You now have a Windows 8.1 Pro bootable DVD disk.
Step 3: Clean Install Windows 8.1 Pro
Once you have a bootable USB drive or DVD, the next step is to clean install Windows 8.1 Pro. Follow these steps to do that:
- Attach the USB drive or DVD containing the bootable files to your computer.
- Restart your computer and set your BIOS to boot from your USB or DVD drive.
- Follow the Windows installation process prompts provided.
- Activate Windows using the product key that came with your copy of Windows 8.1 Pro.
- Install all the necessary drivers and software for your computer.
- You have now clean installed Windows 8.1 Pro on your computer.
FAQ
Q: How do I activate Windows 8.1 Pro?
A: You can activate Windows 8.1 Pro by following these simple steps:
- Click on the Start button
- Select Settings
- Select Update & Security
- Select Activation
- Click on Change product key
- Enter your product key and click Next
- Follow the prompt to activate Windows
Q: Can I upgrade my Windows 7 or Windows 8 PC to Windows 8.1 Pro?
A: Yes, you can upgrade your Windows 7 or Windows 8 PC to Windows 8.1 Pro by following these simple steps:
- Go to the Microsoft website and download the Windows 8.1 Pro installation file.
- Run the installation file and follow the prompts to upgrade to Windows 8.1 Pro.
- Activate Windows using the product key that came with your copy of Windows 8.1 Pro.
Video Tutorial
Conclusion
Installing Windows 8.1 Pro is a simple process that can be done by following the steps outlined in this article. Whether you’re performing a clean installation or upgrading your existing operating system, ensure that you have a reliable internet connection throughout the process. Windows 8.1 Pro is an excellent operating system, and it’s recommended that you upgrade to experience its features fully.