To be able to upgrade from the Windows Vista OS to the latest Windows 8.1 OS, you need to run a clean installation. This means that all files and programs will be removed from the system. However, you will be able to install Vista programs that are compatible with Windows 8.1 later. The best part is that you do not require internet access or calling up the Windows 8 help and support desk for doing this. The process is quite simple, and is explained below.

Instructions

• Before initiating the setup, read through the minimum requirements for Windows 8 installation and check if you have the necessary hardware and software configuration. For best results, your computer requires a minimum of 1 GHz processor, 1 GB of RAM, 16 GB of hard disc space, and a Direct X 9 graphics card with native WDDM support.
• To check your computer’s configuration, open the Start menu in your Windows Vista computer and access the Control Panel. Click on the icon labeled System and Maintenance. Now, click on the button labeled System to see your computer’s specifications.
• You do not have the option to download the OS for this process; hence, you need to get a Windows 8.1 installation DVD. It has both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the OS.
• To check if your system is 64-bit compatible, open the Control Panel and select Performance information and tools. Now, select the View and print details Under the System Type heading, determine whether your OS is 32 or 64 bit and choose it for the Windows 8.1 installation.
• Note down the 25-digit product key labeled on the back of the Windows 8.1 installation disc.
• Insert the installation disc and restart the computer. Boot the computer using this installation disc.

  

• Choose appropriate options when prompted to select your preferred time, language, and currency format. Click on Next.
• Choose Install Windows option and enter the product key when asked to. Click on I Agree and choose Custom Installation. Choose the location where you want to install the OS and click
• Type a preferred computer name when asked to. Personalize the PC settings as required and restart the computer once done.

Windows 8 help and support desk warns that you will lose all files, programs and settings in the Windows Vista computer after the installation; hence, back up all necessary files before commencing installation of Windows 8.1.