How to Update to Windows 8.1

If you have Windows 8 running on your device then you most likely are eligible for the free upgrade to Windows 8.1 and I recommend you do it, like as quickly as humanely possible. Reason I say that isn’t because there’s some sort of time limit or restriction on upgrading, no. It’s simply because Windows 8.1 solves and improves on a lot of headaches you might have in Windows 8. I’ll be doing a full list of my favorite new features in Windows 8.1 later today (and you’ll be able to find it here then, or follow me on Facebook/Twitter/Google+ to get notified when it’s up if you’re curious) but suffice it to say, coming from Windows 8, you won’t be disappointed.

Also, if you are coming from Windows 7, you can still use this method to update to Windows 8.1 but, it’s not free like it is for Windows 8 users. You’ll simply have to pay the normal $120 for upgrading to Windows 8 (but maybe now with the new improvements, it’s worth it).

With all of that being said, here is how to update to Windows 8.1 (since Windows Update doesn’t actually notify you).

I. Make Sure You Are Eligible

Windows 8.1 is free to following people, so check to make sure you meet this criteria:

1. You have Windows 8 (legally) installed on your machine.
2. You must be fully updated.
   1. If you aren’t (or aren’t sure), head to Settings (pulling your hand from off the right side onto the device screen or by hovering your mouse in the bottom right corner) by clicking on the gear in the Charms menu.
   2. Tap Change PC Settings.
   3. Tap Windows Update.
   4. Search for Updates.
   5. Once all installed, reboot your computer if necessary.
3. Then use one of the following sections to download Windows 8.1 and install it.

II. Update to Windows 8.1 via Windows.com

1. While using your Windows 8 machine, head to http://windows.com and if you are eligible you should see a big banner there telling you about the Windows 8.1 update.
2. Click on the button in the banner and you’ll be redirected to the Windows Store and Windows 8.1 will be shown. (If you don’t see the banner on the site, as it’s meant to only show to eligible people, please check Section I and try again).
3. Click Install. Agree to everything it asks and follow the prompts until it reboots.
4. Once it reboots, you’ll have to setup a few things (not much don’t worry) and it’ll continue to install and finally boot up.

OR

II. Update to Windows 8.1 via Windows Store.

1. From your Start screen, select the Store (if it isn’t there select it from All Apps).
2. Select Search (pulling your hand from off the right side onto the device screen or by hovering your mouse in the bottom right corner) by clicking on the magnifying glass in the Charms menu.
3. Type in Windows 8.1 and hit enter.
4. Click on Windows 8.1 (make sure it’s the actual update and not some random app someone made to confuse you, hence our use of Windows.com as the first method) and click Install. Agree to everything it asks and follow the prompts until it reboots. 
5. Once it reboots, you’ll have to setup a few things (not much don’t worry) and it’ll continue to install and finally boot up.

Enjoy! Check back to see some tips and tricks for Windows 8.1 to help you unlock the true potential of your new software (See how I sort of used our tagline there? Yes!).

If you updated, why not check out my favorite new features and how to use them?