Fix-It (Old Version)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nThe issue at hand is that the product keys for Windows 8.1 are distinct from those of Windows 8. It is not possible to enter a Windows 8 product key into the Windows 8.1 installer, just as one cannot enter a Windows 7 product key into the Windows 8 installer. Additionally, it is not possible to download and install the original version of Windows 8 with a Windows 8.1 product key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This limitation may seem unusual, as Windows 8.1 is not a separate version of Windows but rather a free upgrade for all Windows 8 users. However, there is a solution to this problem. The Windows 8.1 installer will not accept a Windows 8 product key during the installation process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, it is possible to enter the Windows 8 product key on the desktop after installing Windows 8.1. This may seem strange, but it is a viable option. To install Windows 8.1 without the product key prompt, one needs to modify the Windows 8.1 installation media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Generic key to install Windows 8.1<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThere are many instances when you may need to install Windows 10, Windows 8.1, or Windows 8 for evaluation or testing purposes, such as in a virtual machine like VirtualBox. In these cases, you may not want to activate the operating system with a licensed product key every time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Instead, you can use generic keys from Microsoft to install the OS, but these keys will not allow for activation. As long as you have an ISO image containing the Windows Setup files, you can install the OS using a generic key. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is similar to how you were able to install Windows 7 without a key. Generic keys for Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 8 serve the same purpose of allowing for easy installation without the need for a specific product key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The generic key for Windows 10<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The generic keys for windows 10<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nCurrently, there are two generic keys that are available for Windows 10. One key is for the standard edition and the other is for the Enterprise edition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n