Replacing Windows 8.1 with 8.1 Pro

[The DongFather]

I currently have Windows 8.1 64-bit installed on my HDD. When I build my new computer I will need to re-purchase Windows for it. Since buying 8.1 Pro is only a few £s more than normal 8.1, I am going to purchase that instead. Will this still keep all my files or will I need to clear the HDD first?

[Jade]

If I read correctly, you're moving the drive to new hardware. If reinstalling Windows to 8.1 Pro, yeah, you'll have to wipe (however, you could just use Windows Anytime Upgrade.) Seeing as you're moving the drive to new hardware, though, you should really just wipe it so you don't have any troubles caused by Windows being configured for other hardware.

 

tl;dr: You can use just the key to in-place upgrade to Windows 8.1 Pro, or wipe and have a full (+ clean) install of 8.1 Pro. If you're switching hardware, it's highly recommended you wipe the drive and install from scratch on the new hardware.

[The DongFather]

If I read correctly, you're moving the drive to new hardware. If reinstalling Windows to 8.1 Pro, yeah, you'll have to wipe (however, you could just use Windows Anytime Upgrade.) Seeing as you're moving the drive to new hardware, though, you should really just wipe it so you don't have any troubles caused by Windows being configured for other hardware.

 

tl;dr: You can use just the key to in-place upgrade to Windows 8.1 Pro, or wipe and have a full (+ clean) install of 8.1 Pro. If you're switching hardware, it's highly recommended you wipe the drive and install from scratch on the new hardware.

I'll wipe it then. Cheers