Can I install Windows 8.1 to a clean hard drive (no OS)?

giraffebananasandwich · Apr 14, 2014

I just bought 8.1 today for my first build and I've had zero luck getting it to work. It could be the way everything is plugged in but I've searched the internet and haven't come up with a definitive answer. I have no problem returning it and getting 8, I'm just worried it's something more complicated.

USAFRet · Apr 14, 2014

What exactly did you buy? Link?
Given working hardware, it should work. What error messages are you seeing?

ScrewySqrl · Apr 14, 2014

you should be able to load it, even if its a upgrade.

If its an upgrade, the trick is to load it in, but when it asks for the code, stop, power cycle the PC ad run agan, saying you want to upgrade. It'll see the c:\windows directory, then you can put in your purchase code and finish the install.

giraffebananasandwich · Apr 14, 2014

I bought the full version with 32 and 64 bit disks. I don't get any message; I put the disk in, it sounds like it's running but the screen stays blank.

ScrewySqrl · Apr 14, 2014

make sure you BOOT FROM DVD.

go into the bios (F2, F12, or DEL depending) and set your dvd drive as first in the boot order, then it wll run from the dvd

giraffebananasandwich · Apr 15, 2014

ScrewySqrl :

Okay, I'll try that. I also read to set the sata drivers to ahci. Hope these work and thanks for your help

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Can I install Windows 8.1 to a clean hard drive (no OS)?

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