How to download Windows 8.1 free upgrade

Microsoft's Windows 8.1 update is now live on
Microsoft's Store for Windows 8 users.
Windows 8.1, which is the latest iteration of
Microsoft's desktop and tablet OS, brings several
new features, changes and additions including
desktop wallpapers for the Start screen, an
overhauled Search, a new multitasking experience
with the ability to snap apps in variable sizes and
the latest version of Internet Explorer (IE 11), in
addition to bringing back the Start menu tip in
Desktop mode and a boot to Desktop mode
option.
Also see: A detailed list of changes that Windows
8.1 brings
The update can be downloaded free of charge
through the Windows Store. You'll get a prompt
to download the update via a notification in the
Store and can install it by following the
instructions on the screen. Although, you'll be
able to retain apps, legacy Windows programs
and, files and settings after the update, it's still
advisable to take a back-up of your data and
keep product codes handy in case you need to
reinstall programs.
If you're running the Windows 8.1 Preview and
had updated to the Preview through the Store,
you'd be able to upgrade to the final version in a
similar manner. However, you'll need to reinstall
apps though your files will remain unaffected.
In case you performed a clean install of the
Windows 8.1 Preview OS, you'll need to go back
to Windows 8 and then upgrade, unless you're
ready to shell out some cash for buying a new
Windows 8.1 license.
Users running Windows 7 on their PCs will be able
to upgrade to Windows 8.1 but they would only
be able to retain their files and will need to
reinstall desktop apps including Microsoft Office.
Upgrading form Windows XP and Windows Vista
is not supported and you will need to do a clean
install of the Windows 8.1 OS on systems running
these legacy operating systems.
Microsoft had earlier announced that Windows 8.1
would be available at an estimated retail price of
$119.99, while Windows 8.1 Pro will be available
for $199.99, similar to the pricing of Windows 8.
Users who buy a device that comes with Windows
8.1 would be able to upgrade to the Windows 8.1
Pro Pack for $99.99 in the US, while Windows 8.1
Pro users will be able to buy Windows Media
Center for $9.99.