Windows 8 Upgrade empty HDD straight to Windows 8.1 possible?


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I have a legit upgrade key for Windows 8.  I read guides regarding installing Windows 8 directly without needing a prior OS installed.  Does this same method work for 8.1 Retail images?

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I have to admit this is more of a guess than knowing, but you can certainly install Windows 8 or 8.1 as a fresh OS from an Enterprise stand point so I really don't see why it wouldn't work with a retail copy.

 

The only alarm bell in my head is that something is telling me that win 8.1 might not take a Win 8 key straight out and that you may need to install 8 first and then upgrade to 8.1. Again this isn't a fact it's just a thought that popped into my head, Someone here will be able to confirm whether that's true or not.

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Yes, use the Windows 8.1 default keys below to install Windows 8.1 as a clean install. These keys will not activate Windows.

 

Core: 334NH-RXG76-64THK-C7CKG-D3VPT
Professional: XHQ8N-C3MCJ-RQXB6-WCHYG-C9WKB

 

When Windows is setup simply Install your purchased 8.0 key via Command Prompt:

 

1. Run Command Prompt with administrator rights and type:
2. slmgr.vbs -ipk AAAAA-BBBBB-CCCCC-DDDDD-EEEEE (ABCDE is your purchased key for that machine)
3. Reboot and Windows will be activated

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Nope the keys are generic install keys which can be found on your 8.1 ISO (I forget exactly where off the top of my head). The keys simply allow you to install 8.1 then activate using a legit 8.0 or 8.1 key.

A very handy time saver for re-installing if you purchased Windows 8 before 8.1 was released.

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