Share via

Instructions: How to create a ISO for Windows 8.1

Anonymous
2013-10-20T12:40:34+00:00

  • As soon as it starts downloading, close the installer assistant from the (X) in the top-right corner.
  • Go back to the Microsoft Windows upgrade page, click Install Windows 8.1, and download the newer installer assistant.
  • Run the newer install assistant.

  • When the download is complete, you can choose to install the OS right-then, or you can choose the option: Install by creating media. This option will allow you to create a USB/DVD media.

  • Select USB drive if you want to install the installation files to a USB stick or select the ISO option if you want to obtain the ISO.
Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Install and upgrade

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments No comments

Answer accepted by question author

  1. Anonymous
    2015-03-19T11:36:29+00:00

    I've tried this 2 times and each time after first starting the windows 8 download and cancelling the download once it starts I then clicked on windows 8.1.  Both times I was prompted for a windows 8.1 product key.  It would appear that this "loophole" has been closed. 

    Are you aware of any other solutions?

    Mike

    The Windows 8.1 downloader got updated and you need to use the original Windows 8.1 downloader for that trick.

    Luckily it got updated again, now Microsoft have a Windows 8.1 with Update 1 Media Creation Tool, this tool does not require a product key:

    http://dellwindowsreinstallationguide.com/download-microsoft-windows-and-office/download-microsoft-windows/download-windows-8-1-retail-and-oem-iso/

    Just ensure you select the correct edition. The downloaded .iso will accept both Windows 8 and 8.1 retail keys. It will also automatically input Windows 8 and 8.1 OEM keys. My updated guide focuses on the OEM install but covers the retail install also.

    4 people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments No comments

16 additional answers

Sort by: Most helpful
  1. Anonymous
    2013-10-21T20:24:54+00:00

    Is the activation process smooth with this method? After I install W8.1 I will be able to activate it with my W8 key?

    I do not want to deal with the Telephone Activation...

    It worked for me after clean install on 3 computers. I did not have to phone anyone at Microsoft thankfully.

    0 comments No comments
  2. Anonymous
    2013-10-21T19:38:49+00:00

    Is the activation process smooth with this method? After I install W8.1 I will be able to activate it with my W8 key?

    I do not want to deal with the Telephone Activation...

    0 comments No comments
  3. Anonymous
    2013-10-20T13:34:30+00:00

    Hi Andre,

    Is this valid for OS's localized in non-english languages?

    Is it possible, some way, to download it through an external downloader program?

    Or, maybe, it has to be downloaded by MS downloader?

    Thanks.

    0 comments No comments