If you’re already running Windows 8 Release Preview there is a chance that you may have noticed that in this latest build, Media Center wasn’t included by default, instead it requires a feature upgrade, which will cost you some money when the operating system finally ships. However, for now it still free of charge and you can install Media Center in Windows 8 with a secondary product key supplied by Microsoft — note that the key used for OS installation will not work.
Instructions
Now follow these steps to complete this task:
1. While in the Start screen, type add features, and then click on Add features to Windows 8.
2. Click I already have a product key.
3. Enter this product key: MBFBV-W3DP2-2MVKN-PJCQD-KKTF7 and then click Next.
4. Accept the license terms and then click Add features.
You computer will restart a couple of times and then Windows 8 Media Center will get installed, after you log back in to your account a new tile will appear in the Start screen.
If you used Windows MC in the past, you already know the benefits: Watch, record, pause and fast-forward live TV, plus the ability to manage all your media with a remote control (or 10-foot experience). However, now the Media Center pack will add the capability to play DVDs, as you may recall Microsoft is taking this feature away from Windows 8.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].