

If you're not sure what it is, there are software programs that can help you find it, or look on the DVD or in the email that you received when you first purchased Windows 8.

The Windows 8.1 upgrade process will check to see that you have the minimum space necessary for it to do its business, but here's your chance to make sure there's plenty of wiggle room before being warned about it. Make sure that at least 20% of the space on your primary drive is free.

These suggestions are based on years of experience troubleshooting and solving various problems seen during software installations, Windows updates, and service pack installs-all very similar to this Windows 8.1 update. The following is an ordered list of tasks you should consider completing prior to starting the update process. Learn how to upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 8 if you need help. It's recommended that you update to Windows 11 because Windows 8.1 stopped receiving security updates in January 2023.
