Install the update manually
- Make sure your PC is plugged in and connected to the Internet using a non-metered connection.
- Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, tap Settings, and then tap Change PC settings.
- Tap or click Update and recovery, and then tap or click Windows Update.
- Tap or click Check now.
To do that, use the keyboard shortcut Windows Key+X or right-click the Start button and select Control Panel from the power user menu – which is also available in Windows 10 (it’s called the Quick Access menu in 10). Scroll down to the bottom of Control Panel and select Windows Update.
- Check your PC. Windows 8.1 Upgrade Assistant will tell you if your PC can run Windows 8.1, and then provides a compatibility report and optional steps for you to buy, download, and install Windows.
- Choose what to keep. Choose what to keep screen in Upgrade Assistant.
- Buy Windows 8.1.
- Start the upgrade.
- Choose your settings.
Install the update manually
- Make sure your PC is plugged in and connected to the Internet using a non-metered connection.
- Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, tap Settings, and then tap Change PC settings.
- Tap or click Update and recovery, and then tap or click Windows Update.
- Tap or click Check now.
If this option isn’t available, you may have to update your PC to the latest Windows patch. To do this, go back to the Start menu and enter the Charms bar. Next, select Settings, followed by the “Change PC settings” option, and click on Windows Update. Check for any new updates, install them, and restart your system.
Can you still upgrade to Windows 8.1 for free?
If your PC is currently running Windows 8 or Windows RT, it’s free to update to Windows 8.1 or Windows RT 8.1. Starting in July, the Windows Store will no longer support the installation or upgrade of apps, although you can still visit the Store to make the upgrade.
Is Windows 8.1 update still available?
According to Microsoft, Windows 8.1 Extended Support will end five years from today, on January 10th, 2023. For those that are still running Windows 8.1, you might want to take advantage of Microsoft’s offer to upgrade to Windows 10 for free.
