Download the latest version of Rufus from its official website.
: Choose GPT if you are installing on a modern UEFI-based computer. Choose MBR if you are installing on an older BIOS-based system.
Although some older links may break, Microsoft still hosts the Download Windows 8.1 page. 1. Download the Tool windows 8.1 download 64 bit media creation tool
Insert the bootable USB drive into the computer where you want to install Windows 8.1.
Microsoft officially ended extended support for Windows 8.1 on January 10, 2023. Following this milestone, Microsoft retired the original standalone Windows 8.1 Media Creation Tool executable from its official download servers. Beware of Third-Party Download Sites Download the latest version of Rufus from its
Run the application and select your USB drive under "Device".
Last verified: The ISO download method using iPad user-agent works as of October 2025. Although some older links may break, Microsoft still
Twenty-two minutes later, the Acer rebooted into the out-of-box experience. He made up a local account—"ArthurPC"—no Microsoft login needed. The Start screen appeared: clean, untouched, as if 2014 had returned.
: Unlike older versions of the tool, you can now select your edition (e.g., Windows 8.1 or Pro) and language, then confirm to generate direct links for either 32-bit or 64-bit versions without entering a key first.