Windows 8.1 is now up for preorder, so you can reserve your own copy of the operating system only, while shipments will only begin on October 18.
But before buying Windows 8.1, there are couple of things you need to know first, including details concerning the upgrading process to this new platform.
Just like Microsoft mentions on the Windows 8.1 page of the official store, “Windows 8.1 is not designed for installation on devices running Windows XP or Windows Vista,” which means that a clean install is needed if you’re willing to switch to 8.1 from these two old operating systems.
On the other hand, if you’re already running Windows 7 right now, upgrading to 8.1 is piece of cake, as all files are automatically transferred to your new copy of Windows.
Microsoft Releases Windows 8.1 Upgrade Information for Windows XP, Vista Users