Before we dive into the steps, it is critical to understand why you should only download the ISO from Microsoft. Third-party websites often bundle adware, spyware, or modified versions of the OS that contain rootkits. The official Windows 8.1 disc image from Microsoft offers:
To understand why Windows 8.1 is interesting, you have to look at what came before it. Windows 8 (the original) was a radical, almost arrogant redesign. Microsoft bet the farm on "Metro"—a design language of flat tiles, bright colors, and full-screen apps. It was designed for a future of touchscreens and tablets, but it alienated the billions of users still relying on a mouse and keyboard. It removed the Start Button, a fixture of PC computing since 1995.
The Windows 8.1 ISO is the record of Microsoft’s retreat. When you install this image, you aren't getting the radical vision of Windows 8; you are getting the correction. The Start Button is back (mostly). The boot-to-desktop option is restored. The ISO file itself is a snapshot of a tech giant learning humility. download windows 8.1 disc image -iso file- - microsoft
You can use a generic install key to unlock the download page. This key cannot activate Windows, but it allows the ISO download.
Enter one of these on the Microsoft download page. The ISO will download. After installation, you must enter your own valid, purchased product key to activate. Before we dive into the steps, it is
You will be prompted to enter a valid Windows 8.1 product key.
If you are accessing the Microsoft download page from a Mac or Linux machine, the website will detect your operating system and offer direct ISO download links. You will not be forced to use the Media Creation Tool. You can simply select your edition (usually Windows 8.1 or Windows 8.1 Pro) and the language (32-bit or 64-bit) to begin the download. Enter one of these on the Microsoft download page
Once you have the .iso file on your hard drive, you should verify its hash (SHA-1 checksum) to ensure it has not been tampered with. While Microsoft no longer officially publishes hashes for 8.1, trusted community archives list them. For example:
You have three main options:
Burn to DVD
Mount and install from within Windows