Install Windows 8.1. on new hard disk before upgrading to Windows 10?


  1. Posts : 15
    Windows 10
       #1

    Install Windows 8.1. on new hard disk before upgrading to Windows 10?


    I have a laptop that came with Windows 8.1. The hard drive failed and has been replaced with a new hard drive. If I want to install Windows 10 on this laptop, do I first need to install Windows 8.1. and then perform the upgrade to Windows 10, or can I just install Windows 10? Will Windows 10 use the Windows 8.1 license key in the BIOS to activate? Or will this not work unless I first install Windows 8.1. and then upgrade to Windows 10?

    This computer has never had Windows 10 on it.

    The computer has a new unformatted hard disk that has never had Windows 8.1. installed.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 18,424
    Windows 11 Pro
       #2

    The newest download of Windows 10 will read the Windows product key in bios stored in bios and use that to both install and activate with as long as the ISO you download contains a version of Windows 10 compatible with the version of Windows 8 the product key is good for.

    Windows 10 ISO Download - Windows 10 Forums
    USB Flash Drive - Create to Install Windows 10 - Windows 10 Forums
    Windows 10 - Clean Install - Windows 10 Forums
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 15
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #3

    I downloaded a new image on 10th of January. I think it is build 10586. Will that one work? I also have the original RTM 10240.

    Thanks for your reply.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 18,424
    Windows 11 Pro
       #4

    You want the build 10586 downloaded in January.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 15
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #5

    Great thank you
      My Computer


 

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