So you want to install Windows 8? Today is your lucky day. In this step-by-step guide, I'll tell you everything you need to know to successfully reinstall Windows 8. Before we dive into the process, I recommend you first read this previous article to prepare your PC for migration to Microsoft's latest operating system. If you're considering a simple upgrade from XP, Vista, or even Windows 7 to Windows 8, you should use this guide.
| Channel | Publish Date | Thumbnail & View Count | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
 AvoidErrors | 2012-10-08 12:01:47 |  87,730 Views |
Formatting and reinstalling Windows 8 with AvoidErrors
Of course, the easiest way to get Windows up and running is to buy a brand new PC. And if you're considering a clean install just because Windows 8 came pre-installed with a bunch of useless utilities, programs, and other junk, consider using the new Windows 8 "Remove everything and reinstall Windows" feature. This feature will wipe everything on your hard drive and install a fresh copy of the operating system without you having to go through this process. It's also a really good option if you want to recycle your PC without exposing your personal files.
Depending on how you get a copy of Windows 8 (online or from your favorite retail store), you can install Windows using Microsoft's Setup Wizard, which walks you through the steps needed to get the operating system up and running. Just like previous versions, there are three ways to install Windows 8: Clean Install – this guide! – where we'll erase everything on the hard drive and install a fresh copy of Windows 8; Upgrade, where you upgrade the current operating system to the new Win 8; and you can always have the best of both worlds and use dual boot, where you install Windows 8 alongside the previous installation and then when you boot you'll see a menu letting you choose which operating system to load.
In my experience, it's best to start with a clean install when moving to a new operating system, especially when moving to a new major version.
