Windows 8 Licence but no media. How can I install ?

[brohoward71]

OK So coz I am an idiot my windows 8 reinstall image for my laptop was on the hard drive inside the laptop thats just died. I have bought a new SSD but even though I have a licence key on the bottom of the laptop I have no media to use to reinstall.
What are my options ?

[kalniel]

You can download it direct from MS here:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-GB/w...oduct-key-only

If you need to create installation media on another computer first, that's covered here:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-gb/w...-refresh-media

[ApophisXP]

If you try and install a Win8 key on 8.1 install disc you're gna have issues unless you tweak the cfg file.

[kalniel]

If you try and install a Win8 key on 8.1 install disc you're gna have issues unless you tweak the cfg file.

Welcome to the forums. If you check the post, he's not asking to do that, and the links given in the post above yours are for people with a win8 key as well.

[ApophisXP]

Welcome to the forums. If you check the post, he's not asking to do that, and the links given in the post above yours are for people with a win8 key as well.

I do understand that, but if he does end up downloading the 8.1 version then at least there was a headsup for him. Saves him having to do the 8.1 upgrade etc as well.

[Alvie]

Connect a USB stick to a different computer that already has Windows installed on it
Go to the second link kalniel posted:

If you need to create installation media on another computer first, that's covered here:

(Sorry, I cannot post links as this is only my third post)
Click 'Create Media'
Follow the instructions
When finished, take out the USB flash drive
Put the USB flash drive in the laptop
Turn the laptop on and get into the BIOS (usually by spamming delete or f2 - usually says at the bottom)
Change the boot priority to boot from USB.
Save and exit
Follow instructions
Windows 8.1 Installed!

[Marcvs]

Only createinstallmedia doesnt work with OEM keys.

Connect a USB stick to a different computer that already has Windows installed on it
Go to the second link kalniel posted:
(Sorry, I cannot post links as this is only my third post)
Click 'Create Media'
Follow the instructions
When finished, take out the USB flash drive
Put the USB flash drive in the laptop
Turn the laptop on and get into the BIOS (usually by spamming delete or f2 - usually says at the bottom)
Change the boot priority to boot from USB.
Save and exit
Follow instructions
Windows 8.1 Installed!

[Alvie]

The key saves to the motherboard's bios.

[Jonj1611]

The key saves to the motherboard's bios.

Say what?

He asked for re installation media not the key which they already have.