Forum Discussion
Does Windows 8.1 have a media creation tool?
What is the best Windows 8.1 Media Creation Tool? As i know, Windows 8.1 does not have an official media creation tool like Windows 10 and 11. That's probably why you can't find it on the Microsoft website. However, you can still create a bootable USB for Windows 8.1 using official ISO files and tools like Rufus or Windows USB/DVD Download Tool. Here's how to do it:
Steps to Create a Bootable Windows 8.1 USB Drive:
1. Use the tool to create a USB flash drive:
- Rufus: This is a popular and easy-to-use tool for making bootable USB drives.
- Windows USB/DVD Download Tool: This is another option to create a bootable USB from a Windows ISO. But - please note that it is mainly designed for older versions of Windows.
2. Create a bootable USB:
- Plug the USB drive (at least 8GB) into your laptop.
- Launch Rufus or the Windows USB/DVD download tool.
- Select the USB drive and select the downloaded Windows 8.1 ISO file.
- Follow the prompts to create a bootable USB drive.
3. Reinstall Windows 8.1:
- Once the USB drive is ready, plug it into your laptop.
- Restart the laptop and enter the BIOS/UEFI setup (usually by pressing F2, F10, DEL, or ESC on startup).
- Change the boot priority to boot from the USB drive first.
- Save changes and exit BIOS. Your laptop should boot from the USB drive so you can begin the installation process.