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 can I install Windows 8 on my PC for free?
Step 1: Go to Microsoft’s page for upgrading to Windows 8 with a product key, then click on the light blue “Install Windows 8” button. Step 2: Launch the setup file (Windows8-Setup.exe) and enter your Windows 8 product key when prompted. Continue the setup process until it begins downloading Windows 8.
Can I install Windows 8 without a product key?
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. … Save the file and run the Windows 8.1 setup again. The setup will not ask for the Product Key anymore.
Can I still use Windows 8 after 2020?
Windows 8.1 will be supported until 2023. So yes, it is safe to use Windows 8.1 until 2023. After which the support would end and you would have to update to the next version to keep on receiving security and other updates. You can continue using Windows 8.1 for now.
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.
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).
Does Windows 8.1 need a product key?
Windows 8.1 does not come for free to use, unless you already have Windows 8 installed and Activated with a legit Product Key. You can download it for free, but you use it you have to buy a Product Key. Microsoft no longer sells Windows 8/8.1.
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.
Is Windows 8.1 still safe to use?
If you want to continue to use Windows 8 or 8.1, you can – it’s still very much a safe operating system to use. … Given this tool’s migration capability, it looks like Windows 8/8.1 to Windows 10 migration will be supported at least until January 2023 – but it’s no longer free.
Is Windows 10 or 8.1 better?
Winner: Windows 10 corrects most of Windows 8’s ills with the Start screen, whilst revamped file management and virtual desktops are potential productivity boosters. An outright victory for desktop and laptop users.
Can I upgrade my Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 for free?
Windows 10 was launched back in 2015 and at the time, Microsoft said that users on older Windows OS can upgrade to the latest version for free for a year. But, 4 years later, Windows 10 is still available as a free upgrade for those using Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 with a genuine licence, as tested by Windows Latest.
Is it worth upgrading Windows 8.1 to 10?
And if you’re running Windows 8.1 and your machine can handle it (check the compatibility guidelines), I‘d recommend updating to Windows 10. In terms of third-party support, Windows 8 and 8.1 will be such a ghost town that it’s well worth doing the upgrade, and doing so while the Windows 10 option is free.
How much longer will Windows 8.1 be supported?
Microsoft will begin Windows 8 and 8.1’s end of life and support in January 2023. This means it will stop all support and updates to the operating system. Windows 8 and 8.1 already reached the end of Mainstream Support on January 9, 2018. Right now the operating system is in what is known as extended support.
Can Windows 8 be upgraded to Windows 10?
Windows 8.0: You cannot upgrade directly from Windows 8.0 to Windows 10. To upgrade from Windows 8.0, you must first install the Windows 8.1 update.