Fresh Install of Windows 8 on a Brand New System

mrlippman

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Feb 5, 2014
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10,510
So I thought I would be able to install a student version of Windows 8 or 8.1 on a brand new hdd and motherboard. Apparently, this is not the case and I would need to buy the system builder for $199. I am not looking to spend more than say 100-120 dollars on the operating system and would love to purchase the student version for cheaper. If anyone is aware of any workarounds that would make this possible, or of any alternative solutions they would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.
 
You can get Windows free if your a student through your school likely, or on https://www.dreamspark.com/ . Windows 8 embedded will work as a normal desktop system and run everything, so if you register as a student you can get it free; if you have trouble adding your school contact support.
 
I registered as the student and I qualified for the 69.99 version. Nothing free as far as I know. How is windows 8 embedded different from pro? Any chance there's a work around to install either a trial or previous version of windows that will let me use the 8 or 8.1 pro student versions?
 
Would you guys recommend the OEM versions? Would it be better to purchase the OEM for windows 7? I've never really installed anything but Linux and am very frustrated with this install process.
 


The student $70 version is an upgrade from Windows 7. Requires an existing Windows 7 install.

Win 8 Embedded may sort of work, but not guaranteed. May lack certain features wanted in a desktop/gaming PC.

The only 'trial' for Windows 8 is Windows 8 Enterprise. Which you cannot buy without a VLK.
 


For Windows 8, OEM or Retail matters little.
The one I linked above will work just fine.

For Windows 7, an OEM version is tied to the first motherboard it is installed on.
For Windows 8, it is not.
 


Windows 8 embedded works for almost all consumers software from what I've tried. Anything from office to gaming works well on it. I use it on one of my computers, and you wouldn't know it's not the consumer version.
 


You can see what the difference here is: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsembedded/en-us/windows-embedded-8-standard.aspx

Did you verify student status? You may need support if your having trouble with student status verifying.

I think Windows 8 can be installed on any device, one at at time, with out being tied to a single system now; correct me if I am wrong.

If you cannot get it free just go with what USAFret, and buy off amazon.
 
So basically I'm looking for the cheapest way to put an os on this system in hopes I could use it on a future system later. My main intent is to be able to have support and be able to game. I have had some issues with memory leaks on windows 8.1 on my laptop. Would you personally recommend 7, 8, 0r 8.1 for my needs.
 
I would recommend 8.1 highly, but a lot of people don't like the new interface so they often don't recommend it mainly for that reason. There are good options like Start8 and Classic-shell which bring back the start menu too. The good news though is Microsoft is bringing the classic start menu back in a future update.
 


For Windows 8/8.1....if you buy it and you install it...it is not tied to any particular hardware.
You can reinstall it wherever you please....only one PC at a time.