windows 8 installation

[ggrandchamp]

Hello everyone!

I have a quick question about reinstalling windows 8 if needed as Ive already installed it. Usually once a year I will do a complete reinstall of windows 7 and wipe the entire harddrive clean - saving what I need on a second HDD.

I have one 64gb SSD to use as a boot drive and a 500gb HDD for storage and games. I recently upgraded to windows 8 via the 39.99 upgrade promotion. I recieved a windows 8 key in my email during the process.

*My question is if I want to reinstall windows 8 for a complete clean install, will I have to install windows 7 first or is there a way to make a windows 8 CD.

Also, Im planning on buying a new SSD soon (256 gb) to be my main boot SSD. I suppose this is where my worry is. Thanks guys and gals!

-GG

 

[SmCaudata]

I know that you can make an ISO or flash drive image to install Windows 8. I'm not sure if you need to have the Win 7 files there for the upgrade. You should be able to do a clean install.

Installing for me onto a new flash drive was easy. Started the program from within Windows 7 and picked the new disk (after initialized so it was recognized) and it went without a hitch. Actually, this is my preferred method because it allows me a dual boot until I know that I am 100% ready to switch for program compatability, drivers, etc...

 

[ggrandchamp]

Thank you for the quick response! If I were to do this, would I use the windows assistant again or is there another program to use? Thanks!

 

[blurredvision]

Thank you for the quick response! If I were to do this, would I use the windows assistant again or is there another program to use? Thanks!

You stated you did the online $40 promotion purchase, so check the email you received as receipt. At the top of the email, it says:

Thanks for your order!

This is your receipt - make sure to print or save a copy for your records.
If you need to download Windows, write down your new product key and enter it here.

Click the "here" link, it will download a small program that will verify your key and let you re-download it.

 

[MadScientist]

OP and all Win 7 pirates this should answer your question.
http://www.davejunia.com/2012/10/windows-8-pro-upgrade-experience/

Make sure you burn the iso file to a DVD or copy it to a USB drive.

I did a clean install on my HTPC (not my main rig); booted from the DVD, formatted my drive, and installed. You will need to input your Win 8 key for a clean install.