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How to Upgrade Windows 7 to Windows 8.1
- Not applicable.
- Microsoft has a tool called Windows 8.1 Upgrade Assistant will tell you if your PC can run Windows 8.1 and then provides a compatibility report.
- Download the upgrade assistant and follow the instructions to install and run it.
- Windows 8.1 Upgrade Assistant will provide a compatibility report that lists which of your current programs and devices will still work, ones that might not work and what you can do to get them working again after you upgrade.
- Windows will give you two options - keep personal files or keep nothing during the upgrade.
- It is always advisable to keep your old files, unless you want to start from scratch and create a completely new computer environment.
- Note you will not be able to keep programs and settings when you upgrade. Be sure to locate your original program installation discs or purchase confirmation emails if you bought programs online.
- If Upgrade Assistant tells you that your PC meets the system requirements and is able to run Windows 8.1, it provides a recommendation for which edition to buy, with the option to buy.
- After your order is processed, you'll get an email receipt that includes a product key. Make sure you keep the receipt email and product key in a safe place.
- Click Next, and the upgrade will start downloading to your PC. You can pause the download at any time, or if you need to stop it and start again later.
- After Windows 8.1 has downloaded to your PC, you have two options: Install Now or Install by Creating Media. Most users should select Install Now. Install by creating media is for advanced users and requires a USB flash drive or blank DVD.
- After you have installed Windows 8.1, you can personalize it. You will be offered a list of default or express settings. If you are not technically savvy, we recommend you accept these "express" settings.
- You will be then asked to sign in. If you have a Microsoft Account you can use it to sign in or create one to log into Windows 8.1.