Windows 8 (non-pro) can be upgraded to Windows 8.1 and you can keep Windows settings, personal files, and applications. Using media (ISO, USB drive) Windows 8/8.1 Pro can be upgraded to Windows 8/8.1 Enterprise, but the language is misleading. The TechNet article ( ) applies to Windows 8/8.1.

This sounds great and may actually work in some scenarios, but not the one I needed. You can then, theoretically, use another command to change the Edition. Using the command below you can see what Editions of Windows the running computer can upgrade to. The TechNet article ( ) applies to Windows 8/8.1 and Windows Server 2012/2012 R2.

Change the Windows Image to a Higher Edition Using DISM After reading this post to the end, come back to the forum thread and re-read it with more/updated facts in mind. There is also confusion by focusing on by licensing and technical aspects. The TechNet forum thread ( ) goes though a transformation part way down as new information became available. After digging around the web I found 3 primary resources for the conversion or upgrade. Keep in mind that I’m specifically referring to a technical solution and NOT a licensing solution to this challenge. Pro just wouldn’t cut it because of the lack of support for BranchCache, DirectAccess, etc. The story: I ran into an interesting scenario where I needed to run Windows 8.1 Enterprise. The synopsis: Using Windows 10/8.1 Enterprise media, Windows Pro can be upgraded to Enterprise edition while keeping installed apps, personal files, and settings.

Windows 8.1 free upgrade