Today Microsoft made Windows 8.1 officially available from the Windows Store. This update is a lot like a “service pack” for Windows 8. It adds a lot of little things that greatly improve the experience of Windows 8. Perhaps the best thing about the update is that it’s free for anyone currently running Windows 8. It’s really easy to update, and today we’ll show you how.
This is a guide for updating to Windows 8.1 from Windows 8. If you are currently running Windows 7 or older you will need to install Windows 8.1 from a disk.
Pre-Install
There are a few things to do before downloading and installing Windows 8.1. Your files, desktop apps, user accounts, and settings will all transfer over to 8.1. Some of your Windows 8 apps will need to be re-installed. Windows will tell you if any of the apps you have will be incompatible with 8.1.
- It’s always a good idea to back up your files before updating the OS.
- Plug in your laptop or tablet to be sure you have enough power.
- Connect to the internet.
Download
Now you are ready to download Windows 8.1.
- Open the Windows Store. There should be a giant graphic notifying you about Windows 8.1. If you see it, click on it and begin the download.
- If you don’t see the graphic, click on this link from the device you want to update.
- Windows 8.1 will download in the background. You can continue to use your device.
Installation
- After the download has completed you will be notified to restart the computer.
- Save whatever you are doing and restart.
- After your device restarts it will guide you through the installation process.
- Follow the instructions on each screen until the process is complete.
- That’s it! You should now see the new Start Screen.
Check out these links for more information about Windows 8.1.
