Download Windows 8.1 RTM, Visual Studio 2013 RC and Windows Server 2012 R2 RTM Today

Starting today, we will extend availability of our current Windows 8.1, Windows 8.1 Pro and Windows Server 2012 R2 RTM builds to the developer and IT professional communities via MSDN and TechNet subscriptions. The Windows 8.1 RTM Enterprise edition will be available through MSDN and TechNet for businesses later this month. Additionally, today we’re making available the Visual Studio 2013 Release Candidate which you can download here .

We heard from you that our decision to not initially release Windows 8.1 or Windows Server 2012 R2 RTM bits was a big challenge for our developer partners as they’re readying new Windows 8.1 apps and for IT professionals who are preparing for Windows 8.1 deployments. We’ve listened, we value your partnership, and we are adjusting based on your feedback. As we refine our delivery schedules for a more rapid release cadence, we are working on the best way to support early releases to the various audiences within our ecosystem.

In providing the best developer tools to our customers, Visual Studio 2013 RC enables development teams to build, deliver and manage compelling apps that take advantage of today’s devices and services. With the release of Visual Studio 2013 RC, we’ve made available additional features and functionality to enhance developer and development team productivity and agility. For more information of what’s new in Visual Studio 2013 see today’s blog post from S. Somasegar.

With these updated platform and tools bits, developers will be able to build and test their Windows 8.1 apps. The RTM versions of tools, services, and platform are required for store submissions which will open up for new Windows 8.1 apps beginning at general availability on October 18.

Given the accelerated rate of technological advancement we continue to see in the industry and here at Microsoft, it’s an exciting time to be an app builder. We recognize the critical role developers play—the breadth of our apps ecosystem is a key pillar of the Windows experience. It’s an essential end-to-end relationship – we deliver the tools, services and platform to give developers the flexibility and opportunity to innovate and build experiences for Windows that make all our lives more productive and fun. 

We also recognize that our commercial customers need time to perform application compatibility and other testing and validation to best plan for their Windows 8.1 deployments following general availability on October 18.

The primary purpose of Windows 8.1 RTM and Visual Studio 2013 RC availability is for testing as our engineering teams continue to refine and update the product and tools in preparation for Windows 8.1 general availability on October 18 and the release of Visual Studio 2013 RTW.  Third party apps may require final refinement to onboard into the Windows Store at the October 18 GA milestone.  However, we’re confident this pre-release will enable developers to ready their Windows 8.1 apps for customers while validating their existing apps function as expected on Windows 8.1

Similarly, we continue to validate the Windows Server 2012 R2 software with our partners and expect to make further updates to the build for general availability on October 18 as well. 

We are pleased to provide non-production support for Windows Store app development and testing for Windows 8.1, via forums and assisted support channels.  For links to those resources, along with existing Windows 8 support options, please visit the Dev Center support options page. We will also provide assisted support for Windows 8.1 RTM and Windows Server 2012 R2 RTM through standard commercial support channels.

We are excited about the innovation we are delivering in such a short amount of time, and are pleased to be able to share these pre-releases with the communities.  Thanks for your continued support and feedback, you can reach out to me anytime, either using the comments here or on twitter @StevenGuggs.

Comments

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Does this extend to the MSDN AA users as well?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    ... actually I'm afraid a lot of feedback is ignored ... loads of requests to continue development of Silverlight (even only in bug-fixing/maintenance mode would be acceptable) and allow it to run in Win8 Modern UI are constantly ignored. Do you really think anyone who's developed a serious LOB app will ever port it to Win8.1/2/3/n? It's almost impossible technically and cost prohibitive given the almost non-existent adoption of Win8 in enterprises. Having Silverlight running in Win8 (in whatever way, through winstore or just IE) would give you instant productivity apps that would help tremendously adoption of Surface tablets in enterprises.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    VLSC? SA?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    @CS Student - Windows 8.1 is available to academic institutions only via DreamSpark Premium (aka MSDN AA Developer) subscriptions. Subscriptions administrators can download it today from MSDN Subscriber Portal.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Florin, that's what you get for using closed technologies :)

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    This doesn't make any sense.  Are you saying the RTM and GA will contain different bits?  So let me get this straight, on Oct 18th, all of the DVD pressed (Purpose of RTM) will be different than the RTW (Release to Web)/GA version thus the DVD packaging is out of date? Call it a Release Candidate if you're going to do this. RTM is RTM, the build should not change and any changes needed should be delivered via hotfixes. Joe

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    AWESOME! Thank you!

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Thanks!  I have two simple questions: What is the "N" version?  Which version do I use on a Surface Pro? Windows 8.1 N (multiple editions) (x64) - DVD (English) Windows 8.1 (multiple editions) (x64) - DVD (English)

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    "The primary purpose of Windows 8.1 RTM and Visual Studio 2013 RC availability is for testing as our engineering teams continue to refine and update the product and tools in preparation for Windows 8.1 general availability on October 18 and the release of Visual Studio 2013 RTW. " Joe I guess you get this wrong - maybe clarification needed by Steve. But I understand, that they publish 8.1 RTM not to have Windows 8.1 refine and updated but Visual Studio 2013 RC, which is Release Candidate :) So from my point of view, no worries - as RTM is RTM :)

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Great news. Now if you'd reopen TechNet, I could live a happy life again.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    I see download links for the ADK and WDK for Windows 8.1 RTM, but where's the download link for the 8.1 RTM SDK? I really don't want to install the VS RC just to get the final SDK bits.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Thanks @Andrew - That is correct and why we chose to release today to our developer communities.  RTM is RTM, but with any software, through other updates and continual testing, we work hard to make sure the release continues to improve.  Thanks

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Thank you. Hopefully you won't try to "innovate" this way again. Early access to developers has been the reason windows works as well as it does. Don't cut out your best fans. Be more open.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Will Visual Studio 2013 RTM be available on Dreamspark Premium on Windows GA or will Dreamspark Premium members have to wait for RTW? Also, when will VS2013 RC expire? We're starting a practical course in C# programming for students during the winter term (Oct 19th-March) and it'd be good to know if we'll can to use VS2013 RTM, RC or have to fall back on VS2012.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Just to clarify if I install the RTM there will be no need to reformat on Oct 19th all updates will be made available via windows update.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Thanks for reversing this policy. Ironically (for me), I already canceled my MAPS subscription when MS announced we would not get the 8.1 RTM bits. Since it was MAPS, cancelling voided the licenses so I then bought the individual products I needed so I'd be legal. Now MS changed the policy. While I applaud the decision to release to MSDN early...this changing your mind just cost me some money though.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Does anyone know if or how we can upgrade from the preview to the rtm version just released without losing programs?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    @Guggs, thanks for the release. Can you please tell me:

  • If XRT in Xbox would be based on Windows 8 or Windows 8.1?
  • If we build an app for Windows store, would it be available in Xbox store?
  • If the TV connected to Xbox One is touchscreen, would I be able to use touch apps with it? Does XRT core support multi-touch? Letting WinRT apps running on XRT and later WinPhoRT (next year with Blue update), would bring tons of incentives for your developers. We need one store and one update policy for all platforms! :-) Thank you!
  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Great news, thanks! However, will any changes that come out between RTM and GA for Windows 8.1 be out as Windows Updates for RTM, or will we need to reinstall/apply 8.1 GA ? Thanks

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Any recommendation to upgrade a Surface Pro from 8.1 Preview to 8.1 RTM? Fresh install from USB is a good idea?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    @Johnk..... windows 8has more users than all of mac OSX combined.... go troll somewhere else

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    That's nice. If you reinstate Technet, I'll remove Linux from my desktop and go back to Windows.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    It appears that the ISOs on MSDN only allow for relatively clean installs. There's no full upgrade option. When starting setup on a Windows 8 RTM machine, the only options I get are:

  • Keep personal files only
  • Nothing I wonder why upgrading would be disabled in these ISOs?
  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Existe una version free?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    @RetroRecursi​on You can try to force it to upgrade by deleting cversion.ini (which is the file telling the ISO that in-place upgrades are not allowed). This was a trick that some people used back in the day for 8RP->8RTM. Might work for 8RTM->8.1RTM. A tool for removing cversion.ini from the ISO can be found at code.kliu.org/.../winisoutils

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    @Sam Jones, yes @D Morgan is correct.  Thanks for explaining. @Aaron - actually, GA is the 18th, and you are correct, that you will not have to reinstall. @Eric - yes, fresh install from USB should work great on your Surface Pro

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    I suppose fresh install means loosing program/setting/data. How can I upgrade a Windows 8 RTM machine to 8.1 without losing program/data?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Visual Studio 2013 only supports XAML 2006, not XAML2009. This joke is no longer funny. Yawn....

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    @KL - Thanks for the suggestion, but removing the cversion.ini file did not appear to work. Still get the same two options:

  • Keep personal files only
  • Nothing At this point it looks like you will lose your your apps and need to reinstall everything. I also found this note on that same screen in setup: Note: If you’re upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 8.1, you won’t see “apps” as an option of things to keep, and you’ll need to reinstall your apps using the original installation media. That really worries me since i was looking to upgrade a Windows 7 machine directly to 8.1. Am I missing something here?
  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    I have a question about Surface RT. I know that there is no Win RT 8.1 RTM right now, and VS 2013 RC doesn't support Win 8.1 Preview. I would like to know if I upgrade my PC from Win 8.1 Preview to RTM, and VS2013 to RC, can I still run or debug my program (under 8.1's framework) on Surface RT with Win 8.1 Preview? If not, is there any solution before Win 8.1 RTW release?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Am installing 8.1 on a fresh machine. I have 4 x different 8.0 Pro keys, and the 8.1 'Enter the product key to activate Windows' screen will NOT accept any of the 8.0 license keys. They are all valid, and legitimate 8.0 keys. Means that I am unable to continue the setup process, and install 8.1 Any ideas?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    @DrPhilGood: You'll need a valid 8.1 key in order to install 8.1. A Windows 8 key won't work, just like a Windows 7 key wouldn't work to install 8. If you're an MSDN subscriber, you can grab an 8.1 key off of your My Product Keys page. If you're not a subscriber, and you're working with a leaked build, why are you here asking for help again?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    But W8.1 is only an update to 8.0 - why would it need a new key?

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    I still cannot see Windows 8.1 RTM in our "Microsoft Action Pack Development and Design" list of available software. When can we expect the availability there? Thanks.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Is there any way now orin the future to do an upgrade from 8.0 to 8,1 without losing all our installed programs (I don't mean apps) - I really can't face installing Office, VS, SQL etc etc again just for this upgrade. Mike

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    To assist with some questions above:

  1. To "unlock" upgrade and keep your files/apps/settings, you need to follow @KL instructions. I tested the utility and it works (code.kliu.org/.../cversion.ini_removal_utility.zip). Evidently, first uncheck "read-only" for the ISO Win8.1 file.
  2. You need a valid 8.1 product key, the old Win8 key does not work. Get one from TechNet (My Product Keys). I have one question: I try to upgrade my Win8 which is on VHD. I get an error "You can't install Windows on a virtual drive". I then tried booting from a USB stick with Win8.1, but upgrade option is not possible unless I run installer from within the existing Win8. Which gets me back to my previous problem. Any hint ?
  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Definitely a step in the right direction, just keep on walking the “Software and Solutions” way M a r c A TechNet subscriber maintaining 8 VMs in his lab that he doesn’t want to reinstall every 180 days.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Any news on when this is coming to Volume Licencing / VLSC? Thanks

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Hi Steve, Do you know where the KMS Client Setup Keys for the Server 2012 R2 RTM are located? This page does not list them and the Preview keys don't work. technet.microsoft.com/.../jj612867.aspx

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    @tassos  and @KL Many thanks - tried that but still only offered to allow me to keep my files Any other ideas ? Mike

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    MSDN subscribers can download it from: msdn.microsoft.com/.../hh442898.aspx TechNet subscribers can download it from: technet.microsoft.com/.../hh442904.aspx

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    Does anyone know when Server 2012 R2 RTM will be available on the MS VLSC with SA?  Thanks.

  • Anonymous
    September 09, 2013
    For Matt B, we came across this and it was caused by the languages not matching i.e. English international is installed and trying to upgrade with an EN-US disk

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    @RetroRecursion - The upgrade path depends on the OS you are upgrading from, more details are available here. windows.microsoft.com/.../preview-faq At GA, Windows 8 users will be able to upgrade all their apps, personal files and settings to Windows 8.1. As communicated at Build, users upgrading from Windows 8.1 RP to Windows 8.1 RTM will have to re-install their apps. @Real McCoy We will have more to share in the next weeks and months, but in the meantime you can find demos and resources at: • Xbox One Official Website - www.xbox.com/.../meet-xbox-one • Xbox One Reveal and E3 Microsoft Keynote - http://www.xbox.com/en-US/hub • Build 2013 keynote - channel9.msdn.com/.../1-002 @Mike - For actual upgrade, you will have to wait until GA.  This release is for testing 8 and 8.1 apps and drivers.  The ability to upgrade 8 will be available via retail channels at GA

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    What about DreamSpark Premium (students)? Could you tell me when 8.1 RTM will be available there? I found this one: msdn.microsoft.com/.../downloads "Available to these Subscription Levels: DreamSpark Premium" but there is no more info, and not downloadable yet. thank you in advance, adi.

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    @Guggs I take it Partners with Action Pack Subscription services aren't included in this, correct?   It would be nice for us selling/supporting services to be able to access the RTM versions early so we can be ready to hit the ground-running on Day-One as well.  

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    I agree with Florin about Silverlight.

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    When will the arm/winrt version be avaliable @ dreamspark? I can still only find the x86/x64 preview versions.

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    @Guggs - thanks for the clarification. It is a shame as I was hoping to test my LOB apps in 8.1 but can't unless I do a re-install of VS 2012, VS 2013, Office, SQL 2012, SQL 2008 etc etc - that would waste a day or more so looks like I will be waiting Mike

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    VS2013 after RTM should work with VS2013 key

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    What about DreamSpark Premium users ?

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    @Stian - The x86/x64 RTM code is all we are providing right now.  The RT update will be available at GA. @Sid and a few others - It is available via DreamSpark Premium subscriptions.  Subscription admins can download it today through their MSDN Subscriber portal. Also, I confirmed that you can upgrade if you get a retail key from here - msdn.microsoft.com/.../keys  If you aren't seeing the same, let me know and I can continue to investigate. Thanks all for the comments and questions.

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    I guess when they saw the Windows 8.1 bits leaking to the web just a few days after it hit the RTM milestone and was sent off to OEMs, they've had no other choice than releasing right away. I can image that this time not just the usual enthusiasts, but also people with a MSDN/TechNet subscription were going for the leaks, and now criminalizing them in any way for using unpublished software would've been even more foolish than their initial decision to hold it back.

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    " It is available via DreamSpark Premium subscriptions.  Subscription admins can download it today through their MSDN Subscriber portal." Does that mean that only admins on dreamspark can access it? Because I have dreamspark premium from my university and I can't access Windows 8.1 there. Only  the regular 8.

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    What about action pack? One thing is developers, but we IT Pros need to learn the new stuff before our customers

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    @Guggs ----- Also, I confirmed that you can upgrade if you get a retail key from here - msdn.microsoft.com/.../keys ... Thanks for the information - just to be clear - these keys did not solve the upgrade issue for me in that I only get the choice of keeping personal files. Also I have just done an upgrade on a surface and I had the same choice there but it seems to have left all my apps intact but removed all my desktop apps. Mike

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    @Niclas and a few others asking about Dreamspark premium - Yes, for now only subscription administrators can download Windows 8.1. It will be released on the webstore of your university (and any university that has DreamSpark Premium and has deployed its own webstore) by 9/19/2013. @JT - Checking in on Action Pack - I don't have any details yet, but will report back if I do @Mike - Thanks for the feedback and checking that...I've flagged it here and am continuing to monitor Thanks all

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    Hi, for Windows8, I had two keys available: one German and one English Now it seems there is only one available for 8.1 RTM? Both language ISOs have the same key, so I guess I won't be able to upgrade both machines to 8.1? Thank you.

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    @blueshiftlabs - Thanks for info, so everyone with 8.0 will need to buy 8.1 keys? That doesnt make sense? I have MSDN, but was not using it, as was under impression that 8.1 was an upgrade, and we dont need new keys.

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    @Guggs or anyone that can reach MS for feedback, It seems that upgrading from Win8 to 8.1 RTM is not possible if you are on VHD/VHDX. In Win8 installation, there was a related warning (Cannot install Windows on virtual drive) that you could safely ignore. In Win 8.1 the warning has become a blocking prompt and you cannot continue. Will GA offer a valid upgrade path for the above case ?

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    Any news on a release date for 8.1 RSAT?

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 10, 2013
    E porque não disponibiliza a ISO do windows 8.1 para todos

  • Anonymous
    September 11, 2013
    Thanks for the additional questions.  @DrPhilGood - when we release at GA this will not require a key, however installing off the ISO can prompt for a key if it is a clean install @No upgrade if Win8 is on VHD - First, let me say, I'm impressed that you created your user name to reflect the actual issue you were reporting. :)  On actual upgrade at GA, if you are doing through a virtual machine, and you update, the update should come through the Store, so you will not any workaround

  • Anonymous
    September 11, 2013
    Also, want to clarify for some questions on types of subscribers that have access.  Lots of questions on Action Pack subscribers.  I've confirmed that both Solution Provide and Development & Design subscribers can access 8.1 bits.  They are available to all MSDN subscribers. As far as MAPS subscribers go, those will be available at GA.  If you have a MAPS-DD subscription, you should have access today through MSDN.  Hope that helps clear even more up.

  • Anonymous
    September 11, 2013
    @Tim Boothby - No news on 8.1 RSAT, (Remote Server Administration Tools) this will follow normal release and should be available at GA.

  • Anonymous
    September 11, 2013
    I have Windows 8 Enterprise. I tried the 8.1 ISO, and can't upgrade.  I tried a retail key, still  no joy. Tried the regular key, still no joy. All from MSDN of course.

  • Anonymous
    September 12, 2013
    For those who've been having a problem upgrading and keeping all the apps and settings -- you possibly having been trying to install the wrong edition. If you currently have Windows 8 Pro, you should get an 8.1 Pro key from MSDN. Otherwise only the "Keep personal files only" will be available.

  • Anonymous
    September 12, 2013
    @Guggs "I've confirmed that both Solution Provide and Development & Design subscribers can access 8.1 bits." I am a "Microsoft Action Pack Solution Provider" subscriber and I do not have access to the 8.1/2012 R2 ISOs on my downloads page.  

  • Anonymous
    September 12, 2013
    @Paul Newell - Are you a MAPS-DD partner, if so, you should be able to access now through MSDN.  If you are part of the MAPS-SP program, you won't see it in the downloads right now.  This is something we've flagged internally, but don't have any follow up on just yet.  Thanks

  • Anonymous
    September 12, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 12, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 12, 2013
    Disappointed!!!! Just downloaded the Windows 8.1 RTM and installed it (several times) on a new Lenovo U430 (new machine with Haswell processor) and nothing really work. Visual Studio 2012 and many other programs (win32 apps) simply fail to run giving a "{app name} has stopped working" error. Even the Intel driver software does not run and gives the same error. If this is better compatibility, then something is terribly wrong. I had to revert back to Windows 8 just to continue to use Visual Studio 2012. I have search the internet and found I am not the only one having this issue and this issue was even found in the Preview version. On my new computer, Windows 8.1 RTM is UNUSABLE. The base OS seems to work and all the Windows 8 apps (I do not use these) work fine, but many of the desktop apps (even Microsoft apps) no longer work. Please fix this.

  • Anonymous
    September 13, 2013
    I have a MSDN account and downloaded the 8.1 RTM and it asks for a new key. I downloaded a key from MSDN and it allows me to upgrade my Win 8 machine, keep settings, files, Apps. However I hesitate using  the MSDN key. Anyway around this and I can keep my current retail 8 key?

  • Anonymous
    September 13, 2013
    When will 8.1 Enterprise keys be available from MSDN?  If you have to upgrade within the same edition, then, that's the reason why it's not working for me -- the keys on MSDN are 'regular' Windows 8.1, and 8.1 Retail.  Where are the keys for things like 'Pro', and 'Enterprise' ?

  • Anonymous
    September 13, 2013
    Sorry, just checked again on MSDN there is Windows 8.1 Pro, and Windows 8.1 keys.  No 8.1 Enterprise.

  • Anonymous
    September 13, 2013
    I did a clean installation of Windows 8.1 Pro N. After installation I tried downloading Skype from the Windows store. I got an error and tried other Apps. I can't download any App from Windows Store. I get an error "Something happened and this App cannot be installed. Please try again. Error code 0x8020002e

  • Anonymous
    September 14, 2013
    I've wanted to install the RTM version from MSDN AA but there is no such thing there. I can install only Microsoft Windows 8.1 Professional Preview from DreamSpark Premium. Can you help me? Thank you!

  • Anonymous
    September 14, 2013
    Please give us info on installing 8.1 pro.  We had it but, we had to send the main comp. for repair.  Now, it  is blank& Micro. is causing us delays.

  • Anonymous
    September 14, 2013
    Still this version is not available for my dreamspark account. hopping to get soon :(

  • Anonymous
    September 15, 2013
    Hello, I tried to install the Windows 8.1 upgrade on my Dell Latitude E6430, which is currently running Windows 8 RTM in a native VHD boot scenario. Unfortunately, I got an error message saying "You can't install Windows on a virtual drive." I would like to perform the upgrade directly, rather than starting with a fresh installation of Windows. Was this scenario tested at Microsoft? Cheers, Trevor Sullivan

  • Anonymous
    September 15, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 15, 2013
    where can i download windows 8.1 without preview?

  • Anonymous
    September 16, 2013
    Upgrade went well from 8 Pro retail to 8.1 Pro RTM. There seems to be an issue with hibernate however, my PC just shuts down. I disabled it and is has been fine so far. I also see issues with USB Root Hub drivers...

  • Anonymous
    September 16, 2013
    Re-installing USB 3.0 drivers took care of the USB Root Hub issue.

  • Anonymous
    September 16, 2013
    I've seen a number of posts about the DreamSpark Premium members not seeing, so I've been digging in.  Here's a couple things... If you are an admin for DreamSpark Premium, here is what you should see in MSDN - twitter.com/.../1 If you are not an admin, but a member, your admin will have to deploy it, which takes a few days.  But want to clarify that the ELMS webstore is not the same as the MSDN portal where you enable it.  Seems there was some confusion, so I wanted to clarify. Everyone else...definitely seeing your questions and comments and am digging up answers with the product team before posting here...stay tuned!  Thanks!

  • Anonymous
    September 16, 2013
    @BenIsbell and a few others using VS - this page has a ton of information on upgrading, what works where and more - www.microsoft.com/.../compatibility-2013 Thanks

  • Anonymous
    September 16, 2013
    FYI - Windows 8 PRO from Volume License is not the same as retail - learned lesson when I had tried to add WMC.  Bits on MSDN are retail bits, so they will upgrade Windows 8 retail.

  • Downloaded Win 8.1 PRO ISO from MSDN

  • Simply double click to mount the ISO and ran setup

  • When prompted entered the new Win 8.1 PRO key from MSDN

  • Selected keep files and apps

  • Upgrade took about 20 minutes and a couple of reboots In the end, I had Win 8.1 Pro activated, but did loose WMC.  Found some references about installing WMC key and activating via phone and that worked.  Now I have Win 8.1 Pro WMC

  • Anonymous
    September 16, 2013
    I know I can't be the only one dealing with this...I upgraded to the 8.1 preview and, with IE 11, I cannot access critical parts of the VLSC. For instance, when I try to access our HUP page I get "Internet Explorer 5.0 and above are the only supported browsers for this portion of the site. Please install Internet Explorer 5.0 or higher; or use a machine with one of these browsers to access this portion of the site. Windows 98, 2000, NT, and XP are the only supported operating systems for this portion of the site. Please install Windows 98, 2000, NT or XP; or use a machine with one of these operating systems to access this portion of the site." Some obviously needs to fix/update this :-/

  • Anonymous
    September 17, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 17, 2013
    Looking forward to Windows 8.1 RTM Enterprise. Holding off on VS2013 install till that's available.

  • Anonymous
    September 17, 2013
    I see now that Windows 8.1 Enterprise is available for download, and keys can be obtained. No upgrade option to keep apps though?! I have Windows 8 Enterprise (not installed ANY preview), mounted the 8.1 Enterprise ISO...  and didn't get any option to keep apps. Anyone know why?

  • Anonymous
    September 17, 2013
    I have read all the comments and I can't seem to understand something. I tried to install 8.1 RTM x64 in UEFI boot and it asks me for a license key.. :-/ I have Windows 8 Standard with the license key injected into UEFI bios. What license key since I don't have it, it's attached to my hardware. I understand that on 18 of October I can upgrade to 8.1 through Windows Store, but if I want to do a clean install from an ISO how should I proceed? If it will ask for a license key I am not able to provide one since it's UEFI BOOT! What's with all this nonsense?

  • Anonymous
    September 17, 2013
    Hi, I have windows 8.1 Pro Preview, let me know whether I need to install the New 8.1 or it will update automatically?

  • Anonymous
    September 18, 2013
    @New User - Yes, you will need to install fresh if you have Win 8.1 Preview installed. Everyone else, still digging up a few answers, hope to have answers later today. Thanks

  • Anonymous
    September 18, 2013
    Polish Academy will be have access to Polish version Windows 8.1 (DREAM SPARK)?

  • Anonymous
    September 19, 2013
    @RogueCode - Thanks for the question. VS 2013 RC is paired to work with Windows 8.1 RTM and doesn’t work against the Windows 8.1 Preview we gave out at BUILD. The next major milestone where people beyond MSDN subscribers will get Windows and VS broadly will be at GA in October.

  • Anonymous
    September 20, 2013
    After upgrading from Windows 8 to Windows 8.1, Visual Studio 2012 no longer runs with an error saying "The program can't start because MSVCR110.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem."  Subsequent reinstall of VS 2012 did not resolve the issue.  Any thoughts?

  • Anonymous
    September 22, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 23, 2013
    Still looking for feedback on Windows 8.1 Enterprise RTM availability on VLSC...

  • Anonymous
    September 24, 2013
    When is going to be available Windows Server 2012 R2 and Windows 8.1 Enterprise Edition for Microsoft Partners?

  • Anonymous
    September 25, 2013
    A link to the 8.1 RTM download would be helpful.

  • Anonymous
    September 25, 2013
    Any update on Enterprise 'upgrade' ? I have 8 RTM Enterprise Edition. I downloaded 8.1 RTM Enterprise Edition When I run setup, and start to walk through the wizard, I get: 'Keep Personal' 'Keep nothing' Why is there no option to keep apps? Thanks Rob

  • Anonymous
    September 25, 2013
    @Alek It's on subscriber downloads on MSDN. Did you search for it? Just put in: Windows 8.1

  • Anonymous
    September 25, 2013
    Does anyone have an update as to when Microsoft Partners with active Action Pack Subscription will get 8.1 RTM? I called MS Partner support today and they had no answer.

  • Anonymous
    September 25, 2013
    @Scott George I'm still waiting for that too.  :(

  • Anonymous
    September 25, 2013
    @Paul Newell Don't try the OEM 8.1 RTM ISO. Won't work with our MS Partner keys. Also an upgrade with an OEM CDKEY will not allow you to update your application settings. I am extremely disappointed @ Microsoft for not allowing Partners access to 8.1 RTM. How are we supposed to support our customers properly without being able to test it first before the public release?

  • Anonymous
    September 26, 2013
    Leave your technical worries to us; We take virtual access of your computer & let out all those irritating errors through our certified technician Get 24/7 Tech Support For Online PC, Mobile, Tablet Repair at: 1(855)548-8397 http://247techfix.com

  • Anonymous
    September 26, 2013
    @Paul Newell & Guggs Can you confirm that at October 18 would be released the new refined, solid, stable and well tested FINAL version of Windows 8.1 ? Windows 8.1 RTM in it's current state is unstable and works like unfinished product, there are many weird bugs in it, also many promised features are missing in built-in apps because they have pre-release status (Skype, Photos for example). Many people who tried Windows 8.1 RTM are reverted back to the Windows 8 or even Windows 7. Installing the latest OS and then waiting for tons of bugfixes - that's not what people are waiting for. What happens with promised reliability and bug-free experience ? Why Microsoft don`t learn from their own mistakes ?

  • Anonymous
    September 27, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    September 27, 2013
    @Guggs My point is that Enterprise 8.1 is available to download from MSDN.  You can get keys from MSDN. You can't upgrade from 8 RTM though. Why is that? Thanks Rob

  • Anonymous
    October 03, 2013
    People are avoiding Windows 8, and using Windows 7 instead. Even Windows XP users are prefer migrating to desktop-friendly Windows 7. Latest NetMarketshare figures suggest Windows 7 is outpacing Windows 8's adoption. cdn-static.zdnet.com/.../screen-shot-2013-10-01-at-07-07-01-619x380.png Source: www.zdnet.com/windows-7-outpacing-windows-8-adoption-shows-latest-figures-7000021383 This is what happens when Microsoft ignores consumers feedback. Many people are making downgrade (and event spent money for that) preinstalled Windows 8/8.1 (yes, the PCs with 8.1 is already in sales) to more familiar Windows 7. Bellow is one of the guides how to do that: www.hudku.com/.../downgrade-to-windows-7-from-windows-8 Only returning good old classic and familiar Start Menu and Desktop OS feeling in the refined final release can save Microsoft from another Epic Fail like it was with early released buggy and unfinished Windows Vista.

  • Anonymous
    October 08, 2013
    The comment has been removed

  • Anonymous
    October 09, 2013
    Will Visual Studio 2013 RTM be available on Dreamspark Premium on Windows GA or will Dreamspark Premium members have to wait for RTW? Also, when will VS2013 RC expire? We're starting a practical course in C# programming for students during the winter term (Oct 19th-March) and it'd be good to know if we'll can to use VS2013 RTM, RC or have to fall back on VS2012.

  • Anonymous
    October 16, 2013
    link to download Windows 8.1 RTM Pro

  • Anonymous
    October 17, 2013
    You need to use an account with Administrator privileges to install Windows 8.1, try logging in with the user account of and administrator of this PC and trying the update again. Logging as Administrator: Store can't be opened using the Built-in Administrator account. Sign in with a different account and try again.

  • Anonymous
    October 17, 2013
    anyone have a link to the Windows 8.1 RTM download

  • Anonymous
    October 19, 2013
    Why is there no upgrade option for people running Windows Server 2012 (Essentials, in my case) to Windows Server 2012 R2?  I've been told I have to buy a whole new license.  No upgrade discount... Nothing! I find this completely insulting. If you want to charge for the OS... fine.  But you should offer an upgrade path similarly to what is done in Windows 7 (going to Windows 8). What's the rationale behind this?

  • Anonymous
    October 22, 2013
    Once you  install the RTM bits, install the updates from support.microsoft.com/.../2883200

  • Anonymous
    March 11, 2014
    Merci pour a voir fait la traduction comprend mue est merci

  • Anonymous
    May 06, 2014
    it is one of the very good effort done by microsoft programmers to transform the classical windows look to the new start look of Microsoft windows for windows 8 and 8.1.......