Can you install Windows 8 upgrade on a totally empty (ie new) drive?

By +ir0nw0lf
in Microsoft (Windows)

 Share

Recommended Posts

Community Regular

adam.mt

Posted
Posted

Taken from that Davejunia link:

"It is clear from above that the Upgrade Assistant simply verifies if you qualify to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro and if you do, allows you to purchase a Windows 8 Pro license. This license or product key is to a full version of Windows 8 Pro."

Great to read, as it'll do just what I need.

Grand Master

Axel

Posted
Posted

Taken from that Davejunia link:

"It is clear from above that the Upgrade Assistant simply verifies if you qualify to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro and if you do, allows you to purchase a Windows 8 Pro license. This license or product key is to a full version of Windows 8 Pro."

Great to read, as it'll do just what I need.

Sorry, what was the direct link to that?

Grand Master

Noir Angel

Posted
Posted

Was wondering about this too and just stumbled upon this thread.

I know with Windows 7 if you installed without entering a key on a blank drive an upgrade key would then fail activation (as per MS advice and what Shane says). However, there was a little know hack (sounds like that mentioned by Joni78 and Javik) that changes the format of the media used stored in the registry and allows an upgrade key to activate. Have used it a few times and it works just fine. In particular, it was useful for doing a fresh install (on blank/new drive) of a Win7 SP1 image rather than having to install an old Windows version, 'upgrade' using Win7 upgrade media + key, then apply SP1.

Wonder if similar is possible with Win 8? Is there definite confirmation?

So I'd need to get a copy of the MSDN media? (the discs are actually different this time, unlike with 7 and Vista)

You can also effectively turn your image into a full retail / MSDN image by adding an EI.CFG file into /sources with the following

[Channel]

_Default

Which will also allow your image to be used for a keyless install.

Grand Master

George P Global Moderator

Posted
  • Global Moderator
Posted

The only way to do a clean install is to make a DVD/USB media through the download assistant or order the $69.99 DVD which has 32bit/64bit on it. Then you have to boot off of that and pick a custom install and then take it from there. You know you're doing a clean install if it asks you where to install Windows 8 to. If you start the installer from within Windows 7 or Vista etc it doesn't do a clean install.

From what i've seen I should be able to get a DVD copy for $70 that has 32bit and 64bit on the disk then just boot off of that directly then do a custom install and pick my new SSD as the target for Windows 8 to install to. As long as my current Win7 install HDD is still connected it'll find it, scan it and then continue on. I haven't tested this of course but if anyone around here plans to do the same as me and install Win8 to a new drive then it should work as long as you boot directly from the DVD or USB drive and not start the install from within Windows itself.

Mentor

Sylar0

Posted
Posted

The only way to do a clean install is to make a DVD/USB media through the download assistant or order the $69.99 DVD which has 32bit/64bit on it. Then you have to boot off of that and pick a custom install and then take it from there. You know you're doing a clean install if it asks you where to install Windows 8 to. If you start the installer from within Windows 7 or Vista etc it doesn't do a clean install.

From what i've seen I should be able to get a DVD copy for $70 that has 32bit and 64bit on the disk then just boot off of that directly then do a custom install and pick my new SSD as the target for Windows 8 to install to. As long as my current Win7 install HDD is still connected it'll find it, scan it and then continue on. I haven't tested this of course but if anyone around here plans to do the same as me and install Win8 to a new drive then it should work as long as you boot directly from the DVD or USB drive and not start the install from within Windows itself.

I get what you saying so in theory it should work on a second partition on the same HDD right? If the theory holds?

Update all see this looks like a yes to me http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/clean-install-windows-8-upgrade-media-144648

Grand Master

Gotenks98

Posted
Posted

Let me just say this I can confirm the Windows Update assistant ISO is different than the MSDN one. I just got an upgrade dvd from the store. Instead of the install.wim file the Upgrade assistant created ISO has an Install.esd file instead. I found this out when I tried to integrate updates and the dism said it couldnt find the file. Thats when I noticed the slight difference.

Grand Master

freeza

Posted
Posted

Duplicated post from another thread:

So, If I go to best buy and get Windows 8 Pro for $69 and bring it home, will I be able to install it on a freshly formatted drive with no prior OS?

Veteran

Shane Nokes

Posted
Posted

Duplicated post from another thread:

So, If I go to best buy and get Windows 8 Pro for $69 and bring it home, will I be able to install it on a freshly formatted drive with no prior OS?

That depends entirely on what keys are being put on the boxes. If they are giving out FPP's then yes. If they keys are upgrade keys then no.

I don't think anyone knows right now 100% for sure what is being done as far as that goes...this launch has been a bit confusing as regards what's going on with licenses.

Grand Master

freeza

Posted
Posted

That depends entirely on what keys are being put on the boxes. If they are giving out FPP's then yes. If they keys are upgrade keys then no.

I don't think anyone knows right now 100% for sure what is being done as far as that goes...this launch has been a bit confusing as regards what's going on with licenses.

Crap. Thanks. Hopefully someone will know for sure before the sale ends.

Apprentice

duvl

Posted
Posted

Wife and I each have a w7 pc. On mine I d/l w8pro iso via the assistant but now wish to install on her pc to try before I install on mine. Hers is a lower spec than mine and if I don't like w8 I am happy to stay on w7. Yes I know I should have thought of this before and d/l via the assistant direct to her pc. Essentially I wish to know if having run the assistant on my PC can I now install on hers and will it activate ok? Thanks

Veteran

Shane Nokes

Posted
Posted

Crap. Thanks. Hopefully someone will know for sure before the sale ends.

The sale on the price of the boxed versions is going on for a while...unless you're referring to a specific super deal somewhere. :)

Wife and I each have a w7 pc. On mine I d/l w8pro iso via the assistant but now wish to install on her pc to try before I install on mine. Hers is a lower spec than mine and if I don't like w8 I am happy to stay on w7. Yes I know I should have thought of this before and d/l via the assistant direct to her pc. Essentially I wish to know if having run the assistant on my PC can I now install on hers and will it activate ok? Thanks

If you downloaded the install image and have the key? Then yes it will install fine as long as the machine has enough heft to run it...which if they both run 7 it should since 8 is even faster than 7. :)

Apprentice

Reisen

Posted
Posted

I want to make sure I have this right, I can buy a copy of Windows 8 Pro upgrade from Amazon and boot from the DVD and delete my current Vista install. Then create a new partition for Windows 8, install it, and activate it, everything will be fine. If I ever replace my motherboard I can still use that copy of Windows 8.

Grand Master

theyarecomingforyou

Posted
Posted

Yes, the upgrade version of Windows 8 can be used to do a clean install without any previous version installed. I bought the upgrade from the Microsoft website, formatted my drive and installed it from a USB-drive with the MSDN version of Windows 8. It activated automatically and without issue.

Veteran

Shane Nokes

Posted
Posted

Yes, the upgrade version of Windows 8 can be used to do a clean install without any previous version installed. I bought the upgrade from the Microsoft website, formatted my drive and installed it from a USB-drive with the MSDN version of Windows 8. It activated automatically and without issue.

So this was a bare drive without any sort of OS installed anywhere on the system?

I ask because you mention formatting the drive, but if it was a bare drive then this step would be done automatically during install & you shouldn't have needed to do it manually.

Neowinian

blckhood

Posted
Posted

I want to make sure I have this right, I can buy a copy of Windows 8 Pro upgrade from Amazon and boot from the DVD and delete my current Vista install. Then create a new partition for Windows 8, install it, and activate it, everything will be fine. If I ever replace my motherboard I can still use that copy of Windows 8.

Yup, as long as you boot with the disk. It asks for your key in the beginning stages. These people did an article, http://pcsupport.about.com/od/windows-8/ss/windows-8-clean-install-part-1.htm it has 20 pages with screen shots that takes you through the process.

Grand Master

theyarecomingforyou

Posted
Posted

So this was a bare drive without any sort of OS installed anywhere on the system?

I ask because you mention formatting the drive, but if it was a bare drive then this step would be done automatically during install & you shouldn't have needed to do it manually.

The previous install was the Windows 8 Enterprise Evaluation, which I downloaded for free off the Microsoft website. When installing I booted off the USB-drive and deleted the existing partitions before proceeding so that it was installing on a clean drive; the installer may have picked that up but even if it did it's not checking whether the Windows licence is valid.

Veteran

Shane Nokes

Posted
Posted

The previous install was the Windows 8 Enterprise Evaluation, which I downloaded for free off the Microsoft website. When installing I booted off the USB-drive and deleted the existing partitions before proceeding so that it was installing on a clean drive; the installer may have picked that up but even if it did it's not checking whether the Windows licence is valid.

It very likely picked that up...which is why I was asking the question.

I also have no doubt that it picked it up as valid since the eval license is an actual license still...that would be in line with how prior versions of Windows have worked.

That's why I point out that I think a lot of people who are reporting that the keys are working for clean installs aren't understanding the difference between clean install and full install.

That's why I've been wanting someone to try it out on a completely bare drive...but I'm not seeing anyone reporting back on that. I would try it out myself but I do not have the spare cash at this moment. :(

Grand Master

Gotenks98

Posted
Posted

It very likely picked that up...which is why I was asking the question.

I also have no doubt that it picked it up as valid since the eval license is an actual license still...that would be in line with how prior versions of Windows have worked.

That's why I point out that I think a lot of people who are reporting that the keys are working for clean installs aren't understanding the difference between clean install and full install.

That's why I've been wanting someone to try it out on a completely bare drive...but I'm not seeing anyone reporting back on that. I would try it out myself but I do not have the spare cash at this moment. :(

It wont activate, I just tried it. Product key was bought online and the disc I used was from the Win 8 Pro I bought from the store, The 2 disks are not the same ( the Upgrade assistant downloaded iso and the Pro box version). The install.wim file is different its labeled as install.esd in the upgrade assistant. This make me think they did something special for this It sucks because I cant integrate drivers if I used this method. I will have to figure something out. The error I get when activating specifically says I can only use it for upgrading not a clean install.

Grand Master

carmatic

Posted
Posted
You can also effectively turn your image into a full retail / MSDN image by adding an EI.CFG file into /sources with the following Which will also allow your image to be used for a keyless install.

does this really work? where did you get this from?

Proficient

gkl

Posted
Posted

Since this is becoming rather confusing, could you guys help me out a bit? My current PC has legit Windows 7 OEM. I will change my motherboard and CPU (thus my W7 license will go down the drain) and want to switch to Windows 8. How should I go on about this? Install fresh, cracked W7 and then upgrade to W8 as mentioned in the article or is there a better, more legit way?

Veteran

Shane Nokes

Posted
Posted

Since this is becoming rather confusing, could you guys help me out a bit? My current PC has legit Windows 7 OEM. I will change my motherboard and CPU (thus my W7 license will go down the drain) and want to switch to Windows 8. How should I go on about this? Install fresh, cracked W7 and then upgrade to W8 as mentioned in the article or is there a better, more legit way?

Piracy talk not kosher here. Get a real prior OS license and then upgrade.

This topic is now closed to further replies.
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Posts

    • Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5

      By Copernic · Posted

      Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 by Razvan Serea Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) is a utility for completely removing AMD/NVIDIA/INTEL graphics drivers and related packages from your system, attempting to eliminate all leftovers (including registry entries, folders and files, driver store). Though AMD/NVIDIA/INTEL drivers can usually be removed via the Windows Control Panel, this uninstaller tool was created for situations where standard uninstall fails, or when you need to fully remove NVIDIA or ATI graphics card drivers. After using this driver cleaner, your system will behave as though it’s the first time you’re installing a new driver—similar to a fresh Windows installation. As with all such tools, we recommend creating a restore point beforehand, allowing you to undo changes if issues arise. If you're having trouble installing an older or newer driver, try it—there are reports that it resolves such problems. Recommended usage: The tool can be used in Normal mode but for absolute stability when using DDU, Safemode is always the best. Make a backup or a system restore (but it should normally be pretty safe). It is best to exclude the DDU folder completely from any security software to avoid issues. You do NOT need to uninstall the driver prior using DDU. Requirements: .NET Framework 4.8 Compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11 (32-bit or 64-bit) Note: Using on Insider Preview builds is at your own risk. Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 changelog: Added 'Reset to recommended' button for the Options. General fixes and improvements. Download: Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) 18.1.5.5 | 1.7 MB (Freeware) Download: DDU Portable | 1.2 MB Links: Display Driver Uninstaller Home Page | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview

      By Copernic · Posted

      WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview by Razvan Serea WACUP (WinAmp Community Update Project) is a modern, enhanced version of the classic Winamp music player, designed for better stability, performance, and compatibility. Built for Windows, WACUP retains the familiar Winamp interface while adding 64-bit support, bug fixes, and new features like improved audio format support, customizable skins, and optimized playlist management. Unlike bloated alternatives, WACUP focuses on lightweight performance and regular updates, making it the best choice for fans of the classic Winamp experience. Basically, if you miss the good old days of Winamp and want a modern upgrade that doesn’t mess things up, WACUP is for you! WACUP key features: Classic Winamp Feel – Keeps the familiar interface and functionality. Bug Fixes & Stability – Fixes old Winamp issues and improves performance. 64-Bit Support – Works better on modern systems. More Formats & Plugins – Supports additional audio formats and third-party plugins. Customizable UI – Skins and tweaks for a personalized look. Better Library Management – Improved playlists, media organization, and search. No Bloat – Focuses on performance without unnecessary extras. Regular Updates – Community-driven development with new features and fixes. WACUP 1.99.51.24568 Preview changelog: Fixed a deadlock seen from the recent crash reports when doing some of the drag + drop actions within the media library window Fixed a loading crash seen related to a problem with some of the artwork cache image files being restored which should now be better handled allowing for the bad image to be removed without it failing Fixed a deadlock seen from the recent crash reports when the internal metadata cache clearing is triggered which could block the main ui thread for too long with this now being moved to a background thread Fixed some performance issues with some of the methods related to determining artwork support which mainly affected the local library import / refresh (this is still slower for some compared to other players because there's more data & artwork aspects being checked for which means doing more processing on a single file despite the best of attempts to reduce duplicate / heavy processing where possible) Fixed a crash with the JTFE based missing files hotkey which no one seems to have used for an age for this to appear (maybe it's time to seriously consider stripping out features that aren't being used) Fixed how some of the file types which use extra information to reference their sub-songs is handled which was preventing some from being correctly resolved back to their base file (noticed fixing above) Fixed an issue with the handling of files with underscores in their filepath which wasn't being correctly handled causing some of the filename to be lost when shown as the title if title reading is delayed Fixed a few things that might be behind NotSoDirect not being stable for some setups though am still not certain that the changes done for this are going to fully resolve the problem from the crash reports Fixed the OS toast handling when there's no prior shortcut in the OS start menu to now create the shortcut (needed to allow the yes/no buttons for the new build / post-release toast) to be done as a hidden one so it's less likely to cause annoyance for those not wanting to see it whilst still allowing this less than ideal OS api implementation requirement to be met to avoid toasts without the needed buttons Fixed a regression when moving from taglib1 to taglib2 which broke some of the handling in place to allow for external programs to still access files when wacup has a held open cached instance of the file Everything else Updated cppwinrt (gen_win10shell.dll) to 3.0.260520.1 (26 May 2026) Updated libcurl (libcurl.dll) to 8.2.1 (24 Jun 2026) Updated Monkey's Audio (in_ape.dll) to 13.15 (28 Jun 2026) Updated mpg123 (mpg123.dll) to 1.33.6 (6 Jun 2026) Updated OpenSSL (libcurl.dll) to 3.5.7 (9 Jun 2026) Updated pugixml to 1.16 (16 Jun 2026) Updated taglib (tag2.dll) to 2.3.0 (11 May 2026) Updated vgmstream (in_vgmstream.dll) to the latest Git commit from 28 Jun 2026 Download: WACUP 64-bit | 9.6 MB (Freeware) Download: WACUP 32-bit View: WACUP Website | Screenshots Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • Dbrand thought they could get away with this Steam Machine case, Valve disagreed

      By Doli · Posted

      "over a thousand engineering hours" and started selling it but could not take a couple of minuets to send an AI email to ask permission. What an expensive lesson.
    • Can't access the forum on mobile

      By WITHOUT-ME · Posted

      just tested it yesterday, a simple page with autoloading ADS takes 60mb....just 1 page for 60 megabytes.   poor people with a limited internet never will visit neolose
    • Tor Browser 15.0.17

      By Copernic · Posted

      Tor Browser 15.0.17 by Razvan Serea Protect your privacy. Defend yourself against network surveillance and traffic analysis. Tor is a network of virtual tunnels that allows people and groups to improve their privacy and security on the Internet. The Tor software protects you by bouncing your communications around a distributed network of relays run by volunteers all around the world: it prevents somebody from watching your Internet connection and learning what sites you visit, it prevents the sites you visit from learning your physical location, and it lets you access sites which are blocked. The Tor Browser Bundle lets you use Tor on Windows, Mac OS X, or Linux without needing to install any software. It can run off a USB flash drive, comes with a pre-configured web browser to protect your anonymity, and is self-contained. Tor Browser 15.0.17 changelog: All Platforms Updated Tor to 0.4.9.11 Updated NoScript to 13.6.25.1984 Build System / All Platforms Bug tor-browser-build#41821: Update gpg subkeys for boklm Bug tor-browser-build#41827: Update morgan's keychain with renewed key Download: Tor Browser (64-bit) | Tor Browser (32-bit) | 109.0 MB (Open Source) View: Tor Browser Website | Other Operating Systems Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware

  • Recent Achievements

    • Reacting Well
      Wakeen1966 earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Rookie
      Almohandis went up a rank
      Rookie
    • Apprentice
      jahara21 went up a rank
      Apprentice
    • Reacting Well
      NovaEdgeX earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Week One Done
      NovaEdgeX earned a badge
      Week One Done

  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      530
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      266
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      148
    4. 4
      Steven P.
      99
    5. 5
      macoman
      55
    Show More

  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!