[SOLVED] Factory Resetting Windows 8.1

[Munch1431]

Hello.

I have an old Acer Windows 8.1 laptop that I'd like to sell.

I've only been able to get my product key by following a Windows post I found online.

If I reinstall using the option 'Remove everything and reinstall windows' will I be able to enter the product key and then the person I sell it to completes the installation? Or will I need to complete the entire installation for them in order to enter the product key?

Thanks

 

[Lutfij]

It should be the same as this guide. Follow through to the last step.

 

[SkyNetRising]

If I reinstall using the option 'Remove everything and reinstall windows' will I be able to enter the product key and then the person I sell it to completes the installation?
Or will I need to complete the entire installation for them in order to enter the product key?

If your laptop was sold with windows 8.1 preinstalled, then license key is embedded into BIOS.
If you reinstall windows 8.1 (same version only - Home or Pro), it will not ask for activation key. The key will be read from BIOS.

 

[Munch1431]

Thanks for the replies. What if I wanted to upgrade to Windows 10. I read that it still is possible to upgrade for free?

 

[SkyNetRising]

Might be possible. Try it and report back. 😉

 

[USAFRet]

Thanks for the replies. What if I wanted to upgrade to Windows 10. I read that it still is possible to upgrade for free?

I would leave it as it came from the factory, 8.1.
Maybe let the new owner know that he can still upgrade it to 10 for free.

But leaving it at 8.1 cuts out a lot of hassle on your part.