reset win 8.1

Do you need a product key to reset win 8.1 if you have the dvd?

 

No. But you should keep it handy just in case. Its the same key as windows 8.

 

I only have the key for 8 not 8.1.
The disc may be handy if asked during refresh or reset for needed information?

 

Put in the disc before starting so that Windows 8.1 can find the info during the refresh.

As I mentioned before, your key for Windows 8 is the one to use for 8.1. There are not different keys.

 

I will do so.
Regarding keys, don't I need a different one to install 8.1?

Or did you mean for something else when you say they are the same?

 

I'm saying windows 8.1 is a free upgrade and you can use your current key. Keep in mind its designed to be installed as an upgrade though.

 

Instead of going through the store for a clean install then upgrading to 8.1, you are saying I can use the 8.1 dvd with the product key I have for 8.1 and install 8.1 that way?
I know we unskilled can try the patience of those who are skilled but the nomenclature not the concept is misleading at times.
Sorry about the patience factor but I am trying to get it right.

 

Perhaps what is confusing us peter is that 8.1 is free from MS as long as you have Win 8 already, which as I understood the situation you do. But if you have paid for an 8.1 DVD and have a separate key for it then you can do a clean install with it. TBH though, if you are on 8 atm I would take advantage of the free upgrade and save that DVD for use on a different computer.

 

He doesn't have a separate key. Allow me to clear up the confusion. This ISO that peterr has was created from Microsoft by "tricking" the system into building an ISO that can be burned later. This is a way to fix the broken refresh/reset after updating to Windows 8.1 from the store.

So there is no key to use. That said, it is a full version of Windows 8.1. However, it might not allow for a clean install unless the windows 8 key is retail. That is why I hesitate to say yes for sure. I've only used it for a refresh.

 

@B -Good to her from you and my Win 8.1 is working well at the moment. The keys were confusing as I got a new one with 8.1 as opposed to 8.
I have two keys.

@Adrynalyne- You articulated the situation clearly.
I have both keys as I mentioned and bought the Win 8 for $40 then upgraded through the store to get 8.1.
I also have a key for the WMC.

This is my original post;"Do you need a product key to reset win 8.1 if you have the dvd?"
I guess the answer is it is not certain yet I have both on hand to try. The same applies to refresh.

Thank you both