Windows 8: operating system and licenses for PCs

Discover Windows 8 for compatible computers. Check the available versions, installation requirements, and the licensing and activation terms of each product.

Windows 8 introduced the Start screen with tiles and an interface also geared toward touch devices. Important: Windows 8 reached end of support on January 12, 2016, and Windows 8.1 on January 10, 2023. For computers connected to the Internet, it is recommended to use an operating system that is still supported.