Step 1: Check System Requirements

Before installing Windows 8.1 Pro, ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements:

  • Processor: 1 GHz or faster with support for PAE, NX, and SSE2
  • RAM: 1 GB (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit)
  • Storage: 16 GB (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit)
  • Graphics: DirectX 9-compatible graphics device with WDDM 1.0 driver
  • Display: 1024 × 768 resolution or higher

? Check if your PC is compatible:
Press Win + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter to check system specs.


Step 2: Download Windows 8.1 Pro

Since Microsoft has discontinued official downloads for Windows 8.1, you may need to use an existing installation media. However, if you still have a valid license, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the Microsoft Windows 8.1 download page (if still available):
    ? https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows8
  2. Click "Create installation media".
  3. Choose Windows 8.1 Pro, select 32-bit or 64-bit, and click Next.
  4. Select one of the following: 
    • USB flash drive: The tool will create a bootable USB.
    • ISO file: Save the file and burn it to a DVD later.

If the download is unavailable from Microsoft, you may need to use an existing installation disk or media from a trusted source.


Step 3: Install Windows 8.1 Pro

  1. Insert the bootable USB drive or Windows 8.1 Pro DVD.
  2. Restart your PC and boot from the installation media (Press F2, F12, Delete, or Esc to access the Boot Menu).
  3. Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click Next.
  4. Click Install Now.
  5. Enter your Windows 8.1 Pro product key when prompted.
  6. Accept the license terms, then select: 
    • Upgrade (if upgrading from Windows 7 or Windows 8).
    • Custom (if performing a clean installation).
  7. If doing a clean install, select the drive where Windows will be installed, then format it if necessary.
  8. Follow the on-screen instructions and let the installation complete.
  9. Your PC will restart multiple times before taking you to the initial setup screen.


Step 4: Activate Windows 8.1 Pro

  1. Open Settings (Win + I) > Change PC Settings > Activate Windows.
  2. Click Enter a product key, and type your 25-character Windows 8.1 Pro key.
  3. Click Activate to complete the process.

✅ Activation Complete! Your Windows 8.1 Pro is now fully set up.


Troubleshooting Activation Issues

  • Ensure you're using a valid Windows 8.1 Pro product key.
  • Check your internet connection and try again.
  • If activation fails, you may need to use phone activation: 
    1. Press Win + R, type slui 4, and press Enter.
    2. Select your country and call the provided Microsoft activation number.
    3. Follow the automated instructions to activate Windows.

Since Windows 8.1 reached end-of-support on January 10, 2023, Microsoft no longer provides security updates or technical support. Consider upgrading to Windows 10 or 11 for continued security and support.