You’ll download a Windows set up executable file. Remember that after getting your product key to keep it backed up in case you need it later.

You’ll be taken to the Microsoft website, where you can purchase 8.1 following the onscreen instructions. It’s also worth noting that if you’re a Windows 8 user, the upgrade to 8.1 is free. If you’re currently a student, you can get 8.1 Pro at the student price of $69.99. If you’re not sure which version you should get, check out our guide on the differences. Windows 8.1 “core” is $119, and the Pro version is $199. Microsoft has also made the physical versions of the new OS available too. The process is easy following the onscreen instructions. Upgrade Assistant also allows you to purchase either 8.1 or 8.1 Pro and do the upgrade over the web. If something comes up that needs your attention, just click the More info link. It’s a free utility from Microsoft that will scan your computer hardware and peripheral devices (make sure they’re all plugged in) and let you know what’s compatible with 8.1 and what isn’t. If you’re unsure about the specs, download and run Windows 8.1 Upgrade Assistant. Upgrade to Windows 8.1 with Upgrade Assistant # For more detailed info, check out Microsoft’s Additional Requirements to Use Certain Features. Since your computer is already running Windows 7, it should be good to go with Windows 8.1. Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or fasterRAM: 1 gigabyte (GB) (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit)Hard disk space: 16 GB (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit)Graphics card: Microsoft DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM driver Here are the basic system requirements to run Windows 8.1: In fact, even if you have your data backed up to the cloud, I recommend having it backed locally up to an external drive, NAS, or other network location. Hopefully, you’re already using an off-site backup solution like CrashPlan, so your data is already taken care of. Backing up your data is the most important thing to do before you start.

If something goes awry during the upgrade process, you’ll definitely want to make sure all of your personal files – music, photos, documents, pictures-are safe. With this upgrade, Windows will retain your files…ideally, that is.

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