How do I skip the installation key for Windows 8?
Skip Product Key Input in Windows 8.1 Setup
- If you are going to install Windows 8.1 using a USB drive, transfer the installation files to the USB and then proceed to step 2. …
- Browse to the /sources folder.
- Look for the ei.cfg file and open it in a text editor such as Notepad or Notepad++ (preferred).
How can I use Windows 8 without a product key?
Open the Start Screen and search for “Deployment and Imaging Tools” and run the special command prompt environment. Burn or mount the ISO file in a virtual machine and you will be able to install Windows 8 without a product key and also select the standard or pro edition.
Does Windows 8 require a product key?
Yes, Product Key on preinstalled WIndows 8.1 is embedded in a chip on the motherboard. You can audit the key using ProduKey or Showkey which will report it as an OEM-BIOS key only (not WIndows 8 or 10).
Can I install Windows 8 for free?
If your computer is currently running Windows 8, you can upgrade to Windows 8.1 for free. Once you’ve installed Windows 8.1, we recommend that you then upgrade your computer to Windows 10, which is also a free upgrade.
How do I put Windows 8 on a USB?
How to Install Windows 8 or 8.1 From a USB Device
- Create an ISO file from the Windows 8 DVD. …
- Download the Windows USB/DVD download tool from Microsoft and then install it. …
- Start the Windows USB DVD Download Tool program. …
- Select Browse on Step 1 of 4: Choose ISO file screen.
How can I activate my Windows 8 or 8.1 for free?
Type slmgr. vbs /ato and press ↵ Enter . A window should appear saying “Activating Windows(R) Your Edition “.
What happens if Windows 8 is not activated?
It also shows the build version of Windows 8 at the bottom right hand corner of your desktop. You cannot use the Personalize options located in the immersive Control Panel either. After 30 days, Windows will ask you to activate and every hour the computer will shut down (Turn off).
Will Windows 8 still work in 2020?
If you’re using Windows 8 or 8.1, you’re already past the mainstream support end date – that happened back on the 10th of July, 2018. … Windows 8.1 still enjoys security updates, but that will end on the 10th of January, 2023.
Why was Windows 8 so bad?
Windows 8 came out at a time when Microsoft needed to make a splash with tablets. But because its tablets were forced to run an operating system built for both tablets and traditional computers, Windows 8 has never been a great tablet operating system. As a result, Microsoft fell behind even further in mobile.
Is Windows 8 still supported?
Support for Windows 8 ended on January 12, 2016. … Microsoft 365 Apps is no longer supported on Windows 8. To avoid performance and reliability issues, we recommend that you upgrade your operating system to Windows 10 or download Windows 8.1 for free.