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How to Download and Install Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview
If you are curious about the new features and improvements in Microsoft Windows 8, you can download and install the release preview version for free. The release preview is a pre-release version of Windows 8 that lets you test the operating system before it is officially launched. In this article, we will show you how to download and install Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview on your PC.
What is Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview?
Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview is the third and final public beta version of Windows 8, following the developer preview and the consumer preview. It was released on May 31, 2012 by Microsoft and is available for download until January 15, 2013. The release preview includes new features and enhancements such as:
- New Family Safety features and enriched privacy and security controls when browsing online, including Do Not Track capabilities being turned on by default with Internet Explorer 10[^2^]
- A redesigned Start screen with more customization options and live tiles that show updates from apps and websites
- A new Windows Store that offers a variety of apps for Windows 8
- A new touch-optimized version of Microsoft Office 2013
- Improved performance, stability, and compatibility with existing hardware and software
How to Download Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview?
To download Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview, you will need:
- An internet connection (internet service provider fees may apply)
- Sufficient data storage available on a computer, USB or external drive for the download
- A blank USB or DVD (and DVD burner) with at least 4 GB of space if you want to create media
- A Windows product key (xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx) if you are installing the operating system for the first time
You can download Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview from the official website at www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows8 [^1^]. You can choose between a 32-bit or a 64-bit version depending on your system requirements. You can also choose your preferred language from a list of supported languages.
After you download the ISO file, you can use the media creation tool (aprx. 1.41MB) to create a bootable USB or DVD. The tool will help you format the media and copy the files to it. You can also use a third-party tool such as Rufus or UNetbootin to create a bootable media.
How to Install Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview?
To install Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview, you will need:
- A PC that meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 8
- A bootable USB or DVD with the Windows 8 Release Preview ISO file
- A backup of your important files and settings in case something goes wrong during the installation
Before you install Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview, make sure you have enough free disk space on your PC. You can check your disk space by going to Start > Computer > Properties. You will also need to disable any antivirus or firewall software that might interfere with the installation.
To install Microsoft Windows 8 Release Preview, follow these steps:
- Insert the bootable USB or DVD into your PC and restart it.
- Press any key when prompted to boot from the media.
- Select your language, time, currency, keyboard, and click Next.
- Click Install now and enter your product key when prompted.
- Accept the license terms and click Next.
- Choose whether you want to upgrade your existing Windows or perform a custom installation.
- Select the partition where you want to install Windows 8 and click Next.
- Wait for the installation to complete. Your PC might restart several times during this process.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to personalize your settings and create a user account.