Need Windows 8 (NOT 8.1) ISO

[JSlate5]

I have a Windows 8 PC that was running Windows 8 when the hard drive failed. The key is embedded in the motherboard and it's not worth buying a new license. I have searched all over and cannot find a Windows 8 ISO to use to install Windows 8 (not 8.1) back onto the PC. Any help appreciated.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

All the 8 ISO's were removed by orders from Microsoft , only 8.1 can be found.

 

[bjornl]

This might be useful:
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_8-winapps/i-need-to-download-windows-8-original-iso-file/918b3294-c58e-4d5a-9c48-be369d3c35c3?auth=1
Also you can probably get a valid Windows 10 ISO which will accept that WIndows 8 license if you use any of Microsoft's assistive technologies. Microsoft is very liberal in what it calls an assistive technology as it includes using the 'zoom' function within the browser or excel. One way to invoke this is the windows key and the + key and then the windows key and the - to return to normal, or the ctrl key and the scroll wheel of your mouse.
You can do that here (assuming you qualify):
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/accessibility/windows10upgrade
Any OS which allows you to navigate to that site should work. You could probably use an unlicensed Win 8.1, though I have not tried it as I don't actually use any assistive tech.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

That might work if it had it linked to a Microsoft Account at some point.

 

[bjornl]

Not sure it is required to link to the MSFT account unless he is going to try to activate the 8.1 (in which case he will need to have done that).
I am not sure an activated OS is required to do the assistive tech upgrade.
I wonder if the 8.1 ISO might not validate with the 8 key? Might call Microsoft and ask.
The other possibility would be to buy a backup OS disk they sell essentially DVDs for most OSes on places like amazon without keys for people who need to re-install but don't need a license.