Installing Windows 8.1: A Step-by-Step Guide

Begin with a bootable USB drive and proceed with these installation instructions:

1. Power up your computer to load Windows normally, insert the Windows 8.1 DVD or USB, then reboot your computer.
2. Your computer will initiate from the Windows 8.1 USB. Press any key when prompted with the message Press any key to boot from CD or DVD.

Note: If your PC boots the existing version of Windows, alter the boot sequence in your BIOS settings to prioritise the DVD.
3. Reboot your computer and when you see the manufacturer's logo, hit the BOOT menu key, often F2, F10, F11, F12, or Del, to access the setup.

4. Modify the boot preference to USB.
5. In the setup interface, choose your preferred language, time format, currency, and keyboard or input method, then select Next.

6. Click Install now to begin the installation.

7. Input the product key for Windows 8.1 activation and press Next.

8. Accept the license terms and press Next.

9. Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) on the next screen.

10. Choose the disk drive for Windows 8.1 installation by selecting the one with the most space in the Total size column.
Tip: To determine which drive to select, examine the Total size column for the drive with the most space in GB.
11. Press Next and the installation will commence on your computer.

12. Following multiple restarts, you will reach the stage to personalise your PC. Select your preferred colour scheme and name your PC. Click on Next.

13. Select Use express settings.

14. Next, sign into your Microsoft account using an email (Hotmail / Outlook / Live).
Note: If you do not have one of these emails, you can create a new account by clicking on the appropriate link.
15. Proceed by clicking Next.

16. Add security details for your account recovery if needed, then click Next.
If preferred, you may skip this step by selecting Skip this for now.

Once these steps are completed, just a short wait and your PC will be fully equipped with Windows 8.1.