Windows 8.1 Pro is an operating system that enables users to run various applications and programs on their computers. Installing Windows 8.1 Pro can be a daunting task for some users, but it is essential for the optimal performance of the system. In this article, we will provide a complete guide on how to install Windows 8.1 Pro and upgrade to Windows 10.
How to Install Windows 8.1 Pro
The following steps will help you in installing Windows 8.1 Pro on your computer:
Step 1: Download Windows 8.1 Pro ISO File
The first step in installing Windows 8.1 Pro is to download the ISO file from the official Microsoft website or any of the reliable sources online. Ensure that you download the correct ISO file for your computer architecture (i.e., 32-bit or 64-bit).
Step 2: Create Bootable USB Drive or DVD
After downloading the ISO file, the next step is to create a bootable USB drive or DVD to install Windows 8.1 Pro. You can use the Windows USB/DVD Tool or any other software to create the bootable USB drive or DVD.
Step 3: Boot from USB Drive or DVD
Once you have created the bootable USB drive or DVD, the next step is to boot your computer from the USB drive or DVD that contains the Windows 8.1 Pro installation files. To do this, you need to change the boot order in the BIOS settings to prioritize the USB drive or DVD over the hard drive.
Step 4: Install Windows 8.1 Pro
After booting from the USB drive or DVD, you will be prompted to select your language, time, and currency format. After selecting the appropriate options, click on the Install Now button to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
How to Install Windows 8 Without Product Key
Windows 8 is an older version of the operating system and is no longer supported by Microsoft. However, some users may still prefer to use Windows 8. In this section, we will provide a guide on how to install Windows 8 without a product key.
Step 1: Download Windows 8 ISO File
The first step in installing Windows 8 without a product key is to download the ISO file from the official Microsoft website or any of the reliable sources online. Ensure that you download the correct ISO file for your computer architecture (i.e., 32-bit or 64-bit).
Step 2: Create Bootable USB Drive or DVD
After downloading the ISO file, the next step is to create a bootable USB drive or DVD to install Windows 8. You can use the Windows USB/DVD Tool or any other software to create the bootable USB drive or DVD.
Step 3: Modify the installation files
Before you begin the installation process, you need to modify the installation files to allow for the installation of Windows 8 without a product key. To do this, open the sources folder in the installation files and open the ei.cfg file using Notepad. Change the contents of the file from:
“`
[Channel]
Retail
“`
to:
“`
[Channel]
OEM
“`
Save the modified file and close Notepad.
Step 4: Boot from USB Drive or DVD
Once you have created the bootable USB drive or DVD and modified the installation files, the next step is to boot your computer from the USB drive or DVD that contains the Windows 8 installation files. To do this, you need to change the boot order in the BIOS settings to prioritize the USB drive or DVD over the hard drive.
Step 5: Install Windows 8
After booting from the USB drive or DVD, you will be prompted to select your language, time, and currency format. After selecting the appropriate options, click on the Install Now button to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
How to Upgrade from Windows 8/8.1 to Windows 10
If you are using Windows 8 or 8.1, you can upgrade to Windows 10 for free by following the steps below:
Step 1: Check Compatibility
Before upgrading to Windows 10, ensure that your computer meets the minimum requirements for the system. The minimum requirements include a processor of 1 GHz or faster, 1 GB of RAM for 32-bit or 2 GB of RAM for 64-bit, and 16 GB of free hard disk space for 32-bit or 20 GB for 64-bit. You also need a DirectX 9 graphics card with a WDDM driver.
Step 2: Reserve Your Free Upgrade
Once you have confirmed that your computer is compatible with Windows 10, reserve your free upgrade by clicking on the Windows icon on the taskbar and selecting the “Reserve your free upgrade” option. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reservation process.
Step 3: Install Windows 10
After the reservation process, Windows 10 will automatically download to your computer. Once the download is complete, you will be prompted to install Windows 10. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
FAQ
Q1. How do I activate Windows 8.1 Pro?
A1. To activate Windows 8.1 Pro, go to the PC settings and select the Activate Windows option. Enter your product key and click on the Activate button to complete the activation process.
Q2. How do I reset my Windows 8.1 Pro computer?
A2. To reset your Windows 8.1 Pro computer, go to the PC settings and select the Update and Recovery option. Under the Recovery menu, click on the Get Started button under the Reset this PC option. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.
Conclusion
Installing Windows 8.1 Pro and upgrading to Windows 10 may seem challenging, but it is necessary to ensure optimal performance and security for your computer. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can install Windows 8.1 Pro and upgrade to Windows 10 with ease.