Windows 7 users have had the option to download the installation media for Windows 7 (all versions). Now, Microsoft is now making available a Media Creation Tool for Windows 8.1 from which you can create a Windows 8.1 installation USB or DVD. We highly recommend that those of you using Windows 8.1 create installation media just in case. A speedy internet connection and a valid Windows 8 / 8.1x key is required. Normally you can find your Windows key on the bottom of a laptop or the back of your desktop tower. If you can’t find it, you can download one of the many free key finders, like Jellybean, to ferret out your Windows Product Key.
Microsoft provides step-by step instructions here: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/create-reset-refresh-media
We have also posted them below and included some screen shots for you.
Here are the official Microsoft instructions::
If you want to install or reinstall Windows 8.1 and don’t have installation media, you can create it from this page. You’ll need to use a PC with a reliable Internet connection and either save the installation files to a USB flash drive or burn an ISO file to a DVD.
Before you begin, here are some things you’ll need:
PC with an Internet connection. If you don’t have a reliable Internet connection, maybe you can go to a friend’s house, library, Internet café, or somewhere else with Internet.
USB flash drive. Use a USB flash drive with at least 4 GB of available drive space. We recommend using a drive with nothing else on it.
-or-
DVD. This requires a DVD burner on or connected to the PC you’re using to create the media, and a DVD player on the PC where you want to install Windows 8.1. Use a DVD with at least 4 GB of space, and we recommend using a blank DVD.
Here are some things to check on the PC where you want to install Windows 8.1:
64-bit or 32-bit processor (CPU). You’ll need to download either the 64-bit or 32-bit version of Windows 8.1 that’s appropriate for your CPU. To check this on your current PC, go to PC info in PC settings or System in Control Panel, and look for System type.
System requirements. See the system requirements before installing Windows 8.1. We also recommend that you visit your PC manufacturer’s website for info about updated drivers and hardware compatibility.
Language in Windows. You’ll need to choose the same language when you install Windows 8.1. To see what language you’re currently using, go to Time and language in PC settings or Region in Control Panel.
Edition of Windows. You should also choose the same edition of Windows. This might be Windows 8.1 or Windows 8.1 Pro. To check what edition you’re currently running, go to PC info in PC settings or System in Control Panel, and look for Windows edition.
When you’re ready, connect your USB flash drive or insert the DVD, tap or click Create media, and then follow the instructions.
* Your use of the Windows media creation tool is governed by the Microsoft Terms of Use for this website.
To install Windows 8.1, do one of the following:
Connect the USB flash drive to the PC where you want to install Windows 8.1, browse to it in File Explorer, and then open the setup.exe file. Follow the instructions in setup.
Insert the DVD into your PC, and then restart (reboot) it. Follow the instructions in setup.
* Your use of the Windows media creation tool is governed by the Microsoft Terms of Use for this website.
To install Windows 8.1, do one of the following:
Connect the USB flash drive to the PC where you want to install Windows 8.1, browse to it in File Explorer, and then open the setup.exe file. Follow the instructions in setup.
Insert the DVD into your PC, and then restart (reboot) it. Follow the instructions in setup.
Notes
If you’re running Windows 8, we recommend that you first try to use the Windows Store to install Windows 8.1. For answers to some common questions about installing Windows 8.1, see Update to Windows 8.1: FAQ.
If you’re running Windows 7, you’ll need to enter a Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 product key. You’ll also need a product key if you’re running Windows 8 and trying to install Windows 8.1 Pro. To learn how to buy Windows 8.1 to get a product key, go to the Get Windows page.
Windows 8.1 isn’t designed for PCs running Windows Vista or Windows XP.
There you go. Now all of you using Windows can build your own Windows 8.1 installation disk or USB.
You say I can download windows 7 from a windows 7 computer and then install it on another computer???? For free??? I must misunderstand.
No you can only install Windows 7 using the product key for the Windows 7 installation you have. In the article above I’ve described how you can find your product key. Your product key does not give you license to install Windows 7 on any other but the computer for which the license key was issued. It’s not a free Windows 7 disk you can use anywhere.
Thanks for all you do for those of us who struggle with the more technical issues of computing. I am running a tablet with Windows 8.1 and a PC with Windows 7. Could you please explain why you recommend creating a Windows 8.1 installation USB or DVD. Is it just in case one loses 8.1 or does it mean I can upgrade 7 on my PC ? Confused I am !!
We recommend having an installation disk around in case you have major problems with your computer and cannot boot into Windows. It makes it easier to install Windows without all the manufacturer’s junk-ware. You cannot install Windows 8.x on any other computer than the one you have the license key for. In the article above i describe how to find your product key.