(Might be wrong thread) How to install Windows without cd drive?

oneandfour

So I just received my first custom-built PC in the post today and was very excited... Until I realised that my Windows 8.1 and GPU drivers were on disks. I was told, and thought myself, that I wouldn't need a disk drive.
I thought it'd be easy to get around, but I've been at it for over 2 hours no and nothing works.
I used the Windows 7 USB DVD Downloader Tool, and get an error at the formatting stage, and last time at 99% done.
I've been here too: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-IE/windows-8/create-reset-refresh-media and after entering my product key it tells me "This product key cannot be used to install a retail version of Windows 8.1"
Please help me!

kaimera

Have you tried a different usb key with the dvd2usb tool?

Is the product key you have for windows 8 or windows 8.1?

rey8px2m7altcs

Who sold you the computer and gave you the information? You can say that they gave false information and ask them to rectify it.
Now if you could borrow a usb disc drive to try and get it done. You could always ask your local comp shop if they would lend it to you for a few quid. However I would still be talking to the people who sold you that comp with the guarantee it would work.
Hmm okay the issue with the key is the suppliers issue however try contacting Microsoft, they are usually quite helpful and they may give you a free key if you are nice

Snarfthefierce

Dunno about 8.1 on USB, but you can get gpu drivers online

U_Fig

What I do is download the iso write the ISO image to the usb
disk I use ultra iso to do this then boot off it

oneandfour

No, haven't tried that- not sure what it is? 8.1

oneandfour

I got it from hardwareversand.de, presumably legit. My brother built his PC with them 2 years ago.
Thanks- I'll try contacting microsoft!

Aka Ishur

Get the windows 8 iso not 8.1, then upgrade after install.

Steviemoyne

oneandfour wrote: »

I've been here too: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-IE/windows-8/create-reset-refresh-media and after entering my product key it tells me "This product key cannot be used to install a retail version of Windows 8.1"
Please help me!

Providing you have a product key you should be fine despite the website saying your key is invalid. When you're installing you are presented with a screen saying enter the product key, worst case scenario it says it doesn't activate.

You are then presented with an option to validate online or by phone, do it by phone where you are then presented with a long string of numbers much like you would expect when topping up your phone, except there's about 9 sections of them.
Just like the picture at this link: Windows activation via phone.
Ring the number, enter the section of numbers into the keypad on your phone when prompted and then they read back numbers to you which you enter into the pc. Job done.

As for the disk drive issue I suggest taking one temporarily from another pc and putting it into your own (I didn't even bother putting it in, just hooked it up and left it on the floor installing the cd). It's relatively simple depending on the drive, just a few screws and a cable. I've not had any use for a disk drive since I put windows on mine (bought everything but a disk drive by mistake, knowing I was getting a disk).

What I do not suggest is taking it to a shop, they'll charge you through the nose for anything. Perhaps someone here might help if you don't feel confident putting in a disk drive.