How to Install Windows 8.1 without a Product Key | PCsteps.com
What is a Generic Windows 8.1 Pro Key?
If you are looking for a way to install Windows 8.1 on your device without spending a lot of money on a product key, you might be interested in using a generic key. A generic key, also known as a default key or a public key, is a type of product key that can be used to activate a Windows 8.1 installation without the need for a specific product key.
Generic Windows 8.1 Pro Key
A generic key has several advantages over a regular product key. First, it allows you to install the operating system on multiple devices without having to purchase individual keys for each device. Second, it makes it easy for you to test or evaluate the operating system before deciding whether to buy it or not. Third, it saves you time and hassle from entering a long and complex product key during the installation process.
However, there is also a downside to using a generic key. While it will allow you to install and use Windows 8.1, it will not activate all the features of the operating system. To access all the features, you will need to purchase a full product key from Microsoft or an authorized reseller. Otherwise, you will be prompted to activate the operating system with a full product key if you wish to access all the features of Windows 8.1.
How to Install Windows 8.1 Using a Generic Key?
Installing Windows 8.1 using a generic key is very simple and straightforward. All you need is an ISO image containing the Windows setup files and a generic key for the edition of Windows 8.1 that you want to install.
Here are the steps that you need to follow:
Download the ISO image of Windows 8.1 from Microsoft's website or another trusted source.
Burn the ISO image to a DVD or create a bootable USB drive using a tool like Rufus.
Insert the DVD or USB drive into your device and boot from it.
Follow the instructions on the screen until you reach the screen where you are asked to enter a product key.
Enter one of the generic keys for Windows 8.1 that matches your edition (see below for a list of generic keys).
Continue with the installation process as normal.
Once the installation is complete, you can use your device as you normally would.
How to Activate Windows 8.1 After Installation?
As mentioned earlier, using a generic key will not activate all the features of Windows 8.1. You will still be able to use your device, but you will be limited in some ways.
For example, you will not be able to personalize your desktop background, colors, sounds, lock screen, etc. You will also not be able to access some online services like OneDrive, Skype, Xbox Live, etc. You will also see frequent reminders and notifications asking you to activate your operating system with a full product key.
If you want to enjoy all the benefits of Windows 8.1, you will need to purchase a full product key from Microsoft or an authorized reseller. You can do this online or offline depending on your preference.
Once you have purchased a full product key, you will need to change the product key in your device and activate it with Microsoft's servers.
How to Change the Product Key in Windows 8.1?
Changing the product key in Windows 8.1 is very easy and can be done in two ways:
Via Settings: Go to Settings > Change PC Settings > Activate Windows > Change Product Key and enter your new product key.
Via Command Prompt: Open Command Prompt as administrator and type slmgr.vbs /ipk and press Enter.
After changing your product key, you will need to activate it with Microsoft's servers by following these steps:
Via Settings: Go to Settings > Change PC Settings > Activate Windows > Activate Online Now and wait for confirmation.
Via Command Prompt: Open Command Prompt as administrator and type slmgr.vbs /ato and press Enter.
Congratulations! You have successfully activated your operating system with a full product key.
What are the Generic Keys for Different Editions of Windows 8.1?
Windows 8.1 has four different editions including Windows 8.1 RT, Windows 8.1, Windows 8.1 Pro and Windows 8.1 Enterprise.
The following table lists the generic keys for each edition:
EditionGeneric Key
Windows 8.1 RTN/A (pre-installed on devices)
Windows 8.1334NH-RXG76-64THK-C7CKG-D3VPT
Windows 8.1 ProXHQ8N-C3MCJ-RQXB6-WCHYG-C9WKB
Windows 8.1 EnterpriseMHF9N-XY6XB-WVXMC-BTDCT-MKKG7
What are the Generic Keys for Windows 10 and Windows 8?
If you are interested in installing other versions of Windows using generic keys, you should know that there are also generic keys for Windows 10 and Windows 8.
The generic keys for these versions are different from those of Windows 8.1 and they may not work for all editions.
You can find more information about these keys in this article: Generic Key To Install Windows.
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