The first major update for Windows 8.1 is finally here. Much like a service pack for older versions of Windows, it expands on the system, making improvements to existing features and security issues, while including some significantly new functions. Take a look at our installation guide below to make sure that you get all the critical updates for Windows 8.1 Update 1. You can install Windows 8.1 Update 1 in two ways: automatically via Windows Update, or manually. We’ll go through both options below.
Automatically install via Windows Update
1. Open Windows Update
2. Select and install all Important updates
Windows 8.1 Update 1 is not offered as a single package, but consists of several separate updates. The Windows Updater will only gives you the first file, which can be identified as KB2919442. After installing this update and restarting your system, you can gradually find the other files you’ll need to install. Tip: Open the Windows Updater until you no longer see any new updates; this will ensure that you actually installed all the individual files.
Manually install Windows 8.1 Update 1
As mentioned, Windows 8.1 Update 1 consists of individual smaller updates that you have to install one after the other in a specific order. Depending on your version of Windows, there are separate updates for 32 bit and 64 bit.
1. Identify your version of Windows
Using the search function, find System Information.
This will open the System Information window containing important system data. Here, you can see if you’re running Windows with 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64).
2. Install the first update: KB2919442
Before the actual Windows 8.1 update, you have to install the pre-update, identified as KB2919442. Download the file and start the installation by double clicking on it. After a reboot, you’ll be able to continue with the update.
3. Download individual updates for Windows 8.1 Update 1
The following links will take you to Microsoft’s overview page. You can download all single updates at once to save yourself some time.
- Download Windows 8.1 Update 1 for 32 Bit (all files)
- Download Windows 8.1 Update 1 for 64 Bit (all files)
4. Install each individual update
Install each update by double-clicking in the following order, reboot your computer, and you’ll be all set with the latest update to Windows 8.1
- KB2919355
- KB2932046
- KB2937592
- KB2938439
- KB2934018