If your PC currently is running a 32-bit operating system however, you'll only be able to do a clean install-i.e., not and upgrade installation that keeps any data or programs-if you choose 64-bit. As to the bit-width option, at this point it makes most sense to go with 64-bit, as all contemporary processors are designed for 64-bit data paths.

The Pro version opens business capabilities like disk encryption and network domain joining and the ability to install Windows Media Center.

A PC running Windows Vista, XP or an even earlier OS versionĪnd for the systems with an existing Windows installation running, you have two further options:.

A PC or tablet running Windows 8.1 Preview.

An existing Windows 8 machine or tablet.

Windows 8.1 Installation Scenarios There are several scenarios for Windows 8.1 installation depending on the PC you want to install it on. You might also have access to it via an MSDN account, if you're a developer. (Don't confuse the Microsoft Store website with the Windows app store built into Windows 8 and 8.1, or with the company's brick-and-mortar Microsoft retail store competition to the Apple Stores!). Starting October 18 it's available for retail purchase in the form of installer discs or software downloads from the Microsoft Store website, with pricing of $119.99 for Windows 8.1 and $199.99 for Windows 8.1 Pro. The new operating system version is available in the form Microsoft calls GA, for 'general availability' starting on October 17 as a free update for existing Windows 8 users. 1 version number increment should be taken to heart-the release is not a drastic departure from Windows 8, maintaining its two modes-new tablet style alongside the traditional Windows desktop. It also gives them better SkyDrive cloud storage integration and a new, more-standards-compliant browser version, Internet Explorer 11. It makes for a smoother computing experience in general, and for those users who want to bypass the new-style, tablet-friendly Start screen at startup, Windows 8.1 gives them that choice.

With Windows 8.1, Microsoft both polishes up the software, removing some of the illogicalities, and adds some new features.

How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication.

How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.

How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.

How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.

How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.

How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.

Direct play windows 8.1