The next enormous Microsoft OS is almost ready to enter into the market. So, the final release is still sometime away, from release but the second major preview that was expected early this year is here. Microsoft has gone ahead and opened up the doors for users to download and try out the new OS. So, let’s quickly look at how to download and install the operating system on your PC. We’ll start by first explaining how to install Windows 8 on a clean system and then, also how to upgrade your Windows 7 operating system.
However, before starting, we suggest you backup any important data and applications just in case.
Download Windows 8 Consumer Preview
The first step is of course, to download the operating system from a download page from where you can download a tool that will check your hardware and software to see your compatibility with Windows 8. You also have the option to download disc images and burn them on a disc and install it. There are 32-bit and 64-bit builds available on this page. You also find a serial key that can be used to install the operating system.
Burn a copy of Windows 8 on a DVD
Once you’ve downloaded the ISO file, now the next step is to use a disc burning software to burn it. If you don’t have one installed, you can always use the default Windows Disc Image Burner that’s part of Windows 7, for example. If you don’t have one, you can download a copy of CDBurnerXP for free.
Downloading Windows 8 from the Microsoft site
Microsoft recommends 16GB of free space if you’re installing the 32-bit version and 20GB if you opt for the 64-bit version.
Setup from an existing Windows installation
If you're doing a clean install of Windows 8, skip this. But assuming that you have Windows already installed, simply insert the burnt DVD and open Windows Explorer. If you have Autorun enabled, the installation setup should start automatically. If it doesn't, double click on the setup.exe in the DVD. The installation will ask you whether you'd like to update the installation before it begins. If you don't want to do this, you can click the Skip button.
Keeping existing Windows settings and data
Next, enter the product key provided by Microsoft you got from their download page. Select which items from the existing Windows installation you’d like to keep. Choose one of the following and click Next. The user has the option to save Windows settings and personal documents or just personal documents.The installation will then begin.
via [tech2.in.com] | 
