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AmeliaAdams's avatar
AmeliaAdams
Iron Contributor
Sep 17, 2025

Windows 8.1 ISO download for 64 and 32 bit

We have a couple of Windows 7 laptops and desktop PCs to upgraded to Windows 8.1 for software testing. It seems Microsoft no longer hosts the Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 ISO file. What is the best place...
Phillip's avatar
Phillip
Copper Contributor
Sep 17, 2025

This is tricky task as Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 has been discontinued for years. One possible way to download Windows 8 ISO file is via MSDN.

MSDN stands for Microsoft Developer Network. It was Microsoft’s program for developers, IT pros, and organizations to access software, documentation, and tools.

A key part of MSDN was that members (through a subscription) could legally download ISO files of almost every Microsoft product ever released — Windows, Office, SQL Server, Visual Studio, and more — along with license keys for development and testing.

For Windows 8.1 ISO download, log in at my.visualstudio.com → Downloads → search for Windows 8.1.

Next, choose the edition and language, then download the ISO with official SHA-1 hashes for verification.

Pros:
✔ 100% official source, safe and verified
✔ Includes multiple versions (Core, Pro, Enterprise, etc.)

Cons:
✘ Requires a paid subscription or access through a company account
✘ Not available to the general public without subscription

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