First time set-up with OS key?

[gingerninja252]

Hi

Is it possible to install the operating system (for example win 8.1) using a key instead of a CD-DVD during first time setup when building your own pc? or do you NEED a disk?

 

[rgd1101]

you need the os installation file on a disk or usb.

 

[geofelt]

You need a windows image from somewhere to install windows. This might be on a dvd or usb.
The key is entered during the install process to prove legitimacy and corroborate the version of windows you are installing.

 

[USAFRet]

Hi

Is it possible to install the operating system (for example win 8.1) using a key instead of a CD-DVD during first time setup when building your own pc? or do you NEED a disk?

You need the actual OS install on a DVD or USB. That is the free part. The license key is what costs money.

You can download the Win 8.1 install stuff here:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows8

 

[clarkjd]

As long as you can set the key as the first bootable drive in your system, yes.

 

[gingerninja252]

Hi

Is it possible to install the operating system (for example win 8.1) using a key instead of a CD-DVD during first time setup when building your own pc? or do you NEED a disk?

You need the actual OS install on a DVD or USB. That is the free part. The license key is what costs money.

You can download the Win 8.1 install stuff here:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows8

aah so i can use my own USB to install the OS as long as i have the key? great!

 

[USAFRet]

I think there may be a little confusion over the word "key".

There is a "license key". This is what is used to talk to home base and activate the OS.
There is also a "USB key". AKA USB stick or thumb drive.

Yes, you can install the OS from a USB stick. Or a DVD
But you will need a "license key".

 

[USAFRet]

aah so i can use my own USB to install the OS as long as i have the key? great!

Yes.
You will need a USB stick of at least 4GB, and it WILL be wiped out during the creation of the install media. So have nothing else on it that you care about.