![get dows 8.1 get dows 8.1](https://winaero.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/gadgets_in_action.png)
Personalize Windows 8/8.1 on the next screen.
#Get dows 8.1 software license
#Get dows 8.1 install
Choosing Install by creating media will not give you an opportunity to keep files, programs and applications. If you want to save your applications, be sure to choose Install now.
![get dows 8.1 get dows 8.1](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/711x400/https://blogs-images.forbes.com/gordonkelly/files/2014/04/1.jpg)
You see your Windows 8/8.1 product key on the next screen.
![get dows 8.1 get dows 8.1](http://cdn5.windowswally.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Windows-8.1-Reset-Change-PC-Settings-Update-and-recovery-Recovery-Windows-Wally.png)
All options might not be available see the compatibility table at the beginning of this article. On the first screen, choose whether you want to keep your Windows settings, personal files, and apps.
#Get dows 8.1 update
Go to Parallels Desktop menu > Check for Updates, and if a new update is available, follow the onscreen instructions to install it. Make sure you're using the latest version of Parallels Desktop.What should I do before upgrading my virtual machine to Windows 8/8.1? To keep files, programs, or settings you must install Windows 8.1 by starting the installation from within your current version of Windows. Important: If you create installation media to install Windows 8.1, and then start your virtual machine from that media and install Windows 8.1, you won't be able to keep your previous files, programs, or settings. Your files, desktop apps, user accounts, and settings come with you. Make sure to backup your data prior to upgrading. You won't be able to keep any files, settings, or programs when you upgrade to Windows 8.1. You'll need to reinstall your programs after you upgrade to Windows 8.1 The following table shows what you have the option of keeping during an upgrade: When upgrading from
![get dows 8.1 get dows 8.1](https://images.theconversation.com/files/46778/original/sg4mr8mg-1398137781.jpg)
You can upgrade to Windows 8.1 from Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP, but depending on which operating system you're upgrading from, you might not be able to keep all of your files, applications and settings.
#Get dows 8.1 how to
Important: This article describes how to upgrade an existing Windows virtual machine to Windows 8.1 if you want to install Windows 8 from scratch, please see: KB 4729. Even if you have automatic Windows Updates enabled, run it manually again just to be sure everything is good to go.Information Which Windows virtual machines can be upgraded to Windows 8.1? Also, because you'll need to re-install your desktop programs, make sure you have a list of all of the license keys for purchased software.Another step I recommend is verifying your Windows 7 system is up-to-date. Either create a local backup on an external drive, an offsite solution, or better yet, use both options. While your folders and files will ideally come with you during the upgrade, if something goes awry, you need to have your pictures, documents, and other important data backed up. Here's a look at what you need to know, and the steps to take to make the process as easy and seamless as possible. The main thing to know is that, unlike upgrading Windows 8 to 8.1, your files and data will transfer, but you'll need to re-install all of your software applications. However, there are a few things you need to know before going ahead with the upgrade. If you're currently running Windows 7 and want to upgrade to Windows 8.1, the process is relatively easy using Microsoft's Upgrade Assistant utility.