Windows 8 Windows 8.1,10 preview and official release question.

[pi314]

Hello,
Sorry if this has been asked and answered but I have a lingering question about running Windows 8.1 and Windows 10 tech preview dual boot. First of all, Windows 8.1 here is an HP OEM. I would like to keep 8.1 as is and upgrade Windows 10 tech preview to the official release when it becomes available. Will this be possible? or will windows' 10 activation change my product key in BIOS and deactivate 8.1? or something else? Thanks for helping me clarify what seems to be a grey area for me.

 

[ussnorway]

As the 8.1 is an OEM (MSDN) the bios key will kick it BEFORE activating so you should be fine... I know 8 and 8.1 msdn get along well in this way but just unless Microsoft takes new steps to stop people doing this with 10 is still up in the air.

1. format some blank (unallocated) space before getting the 10 upgrade which does go over the top of your 8.1.1
2. once the 10 is fully installed, boot to a disc/ usb and install 8.1 onto the unallocated space then set which one you want as the default.