Solved Tip when installing Windows 8.1 Pro from ISO

Hi there

When you install windows 8.1 from the ISO using a currently running version of Windows 8 (mount iso as a virtual DVD and run setup.exe) choose KEEP NONE at the prompt to clean install but DO NOT DELETE the WINDOWS.OLD file (will be located in the C drive) immediately.

Some of your drivers might not be found at Windows 8.1 install but if you use the control panel and select update driver against those that have question marks against them and select search THIS COMPUTER and choose the C drive plus subfolders the drivers will be found and installed from the WINDOWS.OLD folder.

My sony VAIO's card reader (SD/ plus SONY PRO stick dual reader) was found, together with the Intel HD 3000 graphics driver plus the "Firmware parser" whatever that is, plus blue tooth adapter and finally the built in webcam.

This trick might solve a lot of grief especially when using OLDER computers.

After fixing the drivers you can then delete the folder.

Note also at final setup (First time boot) DISCONNECT from the internet otherwise you won't be able to get past the screen that prompts you for a Microsoft account. Disconnecting the internet allows you to set up a LOCAL account which is what I'm sure 99% of people will want anyway.

Cheers
jimbo

theog said:

http://www.eightforums.com/installa...retail-windows-8-1-windows-8-product-key.html

Click to expand...

Hi there
Good to know anyway - but I'm using the TechNet version which has a key (PRO version -- Enterprise will be available in OCT) - so what I was saying was how to update some drivers when Windows 8.1 hasn't found them rather than problems with activating the product.

Cheers
jimbo

If I want to just upgrade my Win 8 to 8.1 can this be done. I just don't feel like reinstalling all my programs.

I do have a backup through WHS of my current system.

Right or wrong, I am regarding Windows 8.1 as a new OS, not an add-on; update; service pack or what you will. One of the principal advantages (for me!9 when doing this, is to reinstall all my software again. This eliminates any worn out customisations, which may have been redone several times, and any other collected rubbish en route. I can appreciate the usefulness of using such, in a virtual environment, but have always gone for a dual boot, as a preferred installation method.
Currently examine the MSDN rtm, I have it in dual boot with Windows 8 and Windows 7, with all my software installed. (Windows 7 was the original OEM that came with the computer).
Whilst there are pluses and minuses in all three, I have moved on and am using Windows 8.1 about 90% of the time, at present. I have very few major complaints about it.

darn it

I have downloaded the Win 8.1 ISO file, started installing did all using your tips. But on "Getting files ready for installation" it stuck on 17%. It has been an hour since it is so. Anything I can do to roll out? Or do the installtion through BIoS or whatever?