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How to Download Windows 8.1 Update 1 with a Registry Trick Updated

It turns out that users can download the update by simply changing a few registry entries

Mar 7, 2014 05:44 GMT  ·  By
Users can get the update from Microsoft by creating a new registry key
   Users can get the update from Microsoft by creating a new registry key

As we told you not a long time ago, Windows 8.1 Update 1 is now available for download, which means that all those running Windows 8.1 can get the update without waiting for the official launch.

It turns out, however, that it’s also possible to get the pack via Windows Update by simply making a small registry change, with the update automatically delivered by Microsoft to your computer.

Of course, this change is only recommended to advanced users and a backup is clearly needed, just to make sure that you’re on the safe side in case something bad happens.

As BAV0.com writes, users need to navigate to the following registry path:

code
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\
Once you’re here, create a new key called “SHWindowsPoolS14” and reboot your computer. Once the system boots up again, simply go to Windows Update and check for new updates. You should be able to see a so-called “Update for Windows 8.1 for x64-based Systems (KB2919442) – (S14 Prerequisite v01.0008)” that’s actually a patch released by Microsoft to prepare your computer for Windows 8.1 Update 1.

Install this one, then check again for updates and this time you shall get a KB2919355 patch that actually contains all Windows 8.1 Update 1 files. Of course, installation could take a while, but you’re done, reboot the computer and that should be it.

Keep in mind that Microsoft might easily block this trick, so it could be working only for a limited time.

Update: we're receiving reports that Microsoft has already blocked this trick, so you might want to have a look at the official Windows 8.1 Update 1 downloads links for a fully working solution.