Can you install windows 8.1 from a USB?

[Cokeman]

Is there anyway you can download windows to a usb without a disc? Like if I buy an activation code, can you download windows from Microsoft's website?

[sterreprop]

Yes you buy it from their website and it will give you a install wizard. From there you can choose to make a bootable USB drive.

 

EDIT: Here is a link: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/create-reset-refresh-media

Edited August 5, 2014 by sterreprop

[Henleyz]

I believe you can.

[ThyFeared]

[Tazman192]

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows-8/create-reset-refresh-media

 

Follow the above link if you already have an activation code, you can acquire the ISO through the first link in that page (the setup file), after entering a product key.

[aidenrelkoff]

yes, you can install basically every OS from a usb, as long as the mobo supports it. (from 2008+ most mobos support it)

[Damikiller37]

Here is a guide on how to get the ISO onto the USB using Microsoft's tools: http://www.cnet.com/uk/how-to/how-to-download-the-official-microsoft-windows-8-1-iso/

[Cokeman]

yes, you can install basically every OS from a usb, as long as the mobo supports it. (from 2008+ most mobos support it)

I do have a new MB I'm getting ready to build my new system. http://pcpartpicker.com/p/MP7rRB     I saw G2A had windows keys for $25 so that why I was wondering if you could install just the windows files to a usb.

[TheMcSame]

Yes.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/create-reset-refresh-media

[silentmelodies]

No, the simplest way is to use Rufus. Google it. Its really simple.

[diiPex]

If you get a retail version of windows you can just follow the steps every one else has been linking, but if you happen upon an OEM version, you're going to have to jump through some hoops as the microsoft software that downloads and mounts the ISO will not accept an OEM key. First of all your going to need to get your hands on a windows 8.1 iso. You can either get this off the installation disk or torrent it from a third party (such as the MyDigitalLife forums). Next you need to mount the iso to your usb, I use Rufus to do this. Now all that's left is to change the boot order in your BIOS, boot to the USB and install windows.

 

PS: At some point during the installation processes it will ask you for your product key. If it doesn't accept your OEM key try to skip the step or use a generic key (you can find this through google, ie: 'windows 8.1 professional generic key'), then continue with the installation. Once finished you can activate windows with your OEM key by using the following command in cmd: 'slui 3'. Make sure you run cmd as administrator for this to work. 

[silentmelodies]

@diiPex KMSPi*cough* *cough*