- Microsoft no longer offers a public download for Windows 8.1, meaning that now you have to rely on third-party sites.
If you still need to download the ISO file to repair or install a fresh copy of Windows 8.1, you can obtain the installation files, but you can no longer do so from Microsoft servers.
While I can’t recommend downloading Windows 8.1 in 2025 since Microsoft ended extended support on January 10, 2023, you may still have reasons for trying to obtain the installation files. For example, you may still have a very specific older program that might only be compatible with the older version of the operating system and not function on newer versions. You have a computer with older hardware and limited driver support for newer Windows versions. Or you may want to install the operating system on a virtual machine for historical purposes or curiosity.
Whatever the case, even though it’s no longer supported, you can still download the ISO file for Windows 8.1 through the Microsoft support website or Rufus without providing a product key (for download only).
An ISO file is a container that includes the installation files, removing the need for physical media. The option for downloading the ISO file is helpful for installing the operating system on a virtual machine, creating a bootable media, or mounting it in File Explorer to launch the upgrade setup.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to download the 64-bit or 32-bit Windows 8.1 ISO file.
Download Windows 8.1 ISO file from Microsoft website
To download the Windows 8.1 ISO file directly from Microsoft, use these steps:
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Quick note: Microsoft no longer offers a public download of the Windows 8.1 ISO. As a result, you now have to rely on third-party hosting sites. Currently, there’s a download option on the Archive.org website, but you should use it at your own risk, as the file doesn’t come from Microsoft’s servers.
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Choose the Win8.1_English_x32.iso or Win8.1_English_x64.iso option from the right pane, depending on the version of Windows 8.1 to download.
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Save the Windows 8.1 ISO file onto your computer.
Once you complete the steps, the Windows 8.1 ISO file will download to your computer.
Although the recommended option is to download the 64-bit version, you can also choose the 32-bit version if your hardware doesn’t support the newer architecture.
Although you can still download the installation files, Windows 8.1 is no longer supported, meaning there are no longer security updates. Using an unsupported operating system exposes your device to security risks from malware, viruses, and other exploits. Furthermore, you may not be able to install newer software and may encounter driver and other issues.
If the hardware is supported, you should consider installing the latest version of Windows 11. You can also use these instructions to upgrade from Windows 8.1 to 10.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech in 2010. With over 22 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
You can follow him on YouTube, Threads, BlueSky, X (Twitter), LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].