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If you have gotten your hands on Windows 8.1, the final version (build 9600) or on any of the leaked builds, you can install it using this step by step guide. We will cover each step of the process and share useful information regarding more special installation scenarios.
What to Expect from Windows 8.1
There are many new things in Windows 8.1. Some were presented in this article based on the Windows 8.1 Preview while other things are new to the RTM itself: What's New in Windows 8.1 Public Preview (codename "Blue")?.
Below you can view a video that shares some of the novelties introduced in a leaked build that is very similar to the final Windows 8.1 version - the RTM:
[bbvideo=560,315]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoYPOrKulps[/bbvideo]
Things to Keep in Mind
You can install Windows 8.1 on your computer or in a virtual machine. At this moment, the latest version of VirtualBox doesn't work well with Windows 8.1. The only virtual machine software that works without issues is VMware Player.
Before you start the installation, you need to have a product key available. Make sure you have it before moving forward with this guide.
Next, it is best to have a working internet connection available, so that Windows 8.1 can double check your Microsoft account details and download the latest updates available. A Microsoft account is requested by Windows 8.1. Unlike during the Windows 8 setup process, you are not given the option to create and use a local user account. The only exception to this rule is when you don't have a network connection available or something went wrong with the validation your Microsoft account. Only then are you given the option to create a local user account.
Windows 8.1 uses approximately 10GB of space without any special extras installed. If you want to install other applications, you should make a larger partition for it. My recommendation is to go for a minimum of at least 20 - 25 GB.
Windows 8.1 RTM - The Installation Procedure
First, you need to boot your computer using the Windows 8.1 installation disc. If you are using a virtual machine, boot from the .iso disc installation image. Windows 8.1 takes a while to load the setup files.
Once the necessary files are copied, the setup starts by asking what language, time, currency and keyboard input settings you want to use. Make the selections you prefer and click Next.
Click the Install now button to start the installation.
You are asked to enter the product key required to activate your Windows 8.1. Type it and click Next.
You are asked to read the license agreement. Check the "I accept the license terms" box and click Next.
You are asked to choose between making an upgrade or a custom installation. If you want to make a clean installation (it is best that you do that), pick "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)".
Now you are asked to select where you want to install Windows. Select the partition you want to use for Windows 8.1 and click Next.
NOTE: If you are installing Windows 8.1 in a virtual machine or on a new computer, you first need to create the partition where you want to install it. Therefore click on Drive Options. Then, create the partition using the New button. Specify the size of the partition and click Apply. At this step, you may be asked to confirm if you are OK with Windows 8.1 creating an additional partition for its system files, that will be used for boot and recovery. If you are asked, click OK.
The installation starts. The setup will take a few minutes to copy all the required files and install the operating system.
Once the installation is done, the Windows 8.1 setup will automatically reboot your system. Then, you will see the progress of the preparations made for your first login. In order for this process to finish, you might need to go through another reboot, depending on your computer's hardware configuration.
How to Personalize the Windows 8.1 Installation
After the restart, Windows 8.1 starts the customization process...
