Dell factory-installed versions of Windows 8 and 8.1 do not require a product key for Dell computers. Read our article on Windows 8/8.1 product keys for more information. Please check it and try again, or try a different key' If an incorrect key is typed into the box, the line will say, ' This product key didn't work.

If a correct key is typed into the box, the line below the box will state, ' Your product key works! Continue when you're ready The Product Key is a 25 character sequence, separated by dashes.

Locate your Product Key and type it into the box provided, then click Next to continue.

Select Language to install, Time and currency format, and Keyboard or input method and select Next.

Save the changes and exit System Setup to restart the computer.

In the order of boot devices, either CD/DVD/CDRW or Internal ODD Device is the first item in the list.

The setting for Secure Boot is Disabled.

Depending on the type of BIOS, you will need to find the Boot section using the Up and Down arrow keys.

Option 2įor computers that do have UEFI BIOS, At the Dell logo screen, tap the F2 key repeatedly until the System Setup menu appears. Select CD/DVD/CD-RW Device and press Enter. Select from the option that best fits your computer: Option 1įor computers that do not have UEFI BIOS, at the Dell logo screen, tap the F12 key repeatedly until the Please Select Boot Device: menu appears.

Insert the Windows 8/8.1 DVD into your optical drive and restart your computer.

Perform a clean installation of Windows 8/8.1 To get detailed information on using the Dell OS Recovery Tool to create an image, refer to KB article, 'How to Download and Use the Dell OS Recovery Image in Microsoft Windows' If you need to get media to repair or restore your operating system to its original factory image, visit the Media Backup page to get information on creating recovery discs from your Dell computer or downloading an image online. This article provides a step-by-step guide for performing a clean install of Windows 8/8.1 on a computer, as well as retail DVD/USB upgrade installation instructions and post-installation setup and personalization.

Windows 8/8.1 post-installation actions.

Upgrade to Windows 8 from a retail DVD or USB Key.

Perform a clean installation of Windows 8/8.1.

Windows 8.1 pro upgrade