
If you’re coming from Windows XP, you can keep the personal files and documents on your hard drive. Next, the wizard will ask you want files you want to keep from your old installation of Windows. This allows you to have a physical copy of Windows 8 in case you need its recovery features or need to reinstall Windows in the future. If you’re installing from the downloaded version of Windows 8, it’ll give you the option to put Windows 8 on a DVD or USB drive. It will then search the Windows update server to see if there are new drivers and software to increase compatibility. Once that’s done, the wizard will tell you what apps and connected devices will and will not work with Windows 8. It will check your computer to see if you have all the necessary components to upgrade or install Windows 8. Installing Windows 8īoth methods will launch the upgrade wizard. If you’ve bought a DVD copy, pop that in and start the installation wizard. If you’re downloading it from the internet, it’s a simple procedure as the installation wizard will guide you through the installation process. There are two ways to get Windows 8: download or physical media. Resolution: 1024 x 768 to download and run applications from the Windows Store. Graphics card: compatible with DirectX 9 with WDDM. Everything must be downloaded through the Windows Store.īefore you buy Windows 8, you’ll want to check if your computer meets the minimum system requirements.įor Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro, the system requirements are: This operating system will be used on tablets and will not run traditional desktop software. Windows RT will only be sold to tablet manufacturers. To make things even more confusing, Microsoft will have Windows RT, which contains only the touch, Modern UI of Windows 8. BranchCahce (enables PC cache files from a central server, improving speed). Windows to go (booting from mass storage devices). Going up to Windows 8 Enterprise will add the following features. BitLocker Drive Encryption and BitLocker To Go. Stepping up to Windows 8 Pro, users will gain the following features:
Make sure to read our guide on which version of Windows 8 is right for you.
The basic version of Windows 8 will work on most devices as it will come in a 32 and 64 bit version. The first thing you need to know is that there are several different versions of Windows 8. In this guide, I’ll help you understand how to install Windows 8.