How to upgrade to Windows 8 Consumer Preview (via USB)

1. Download Windows 8 Consumer Preview in ISO format here

(be sure to choose correct edition – 32 or 64-bit)

2. During installation (later) the software prompts for an installation key so, run the Windows 8 Consumer Preview Setup from here, let it do its app check, click Next, and you’ll get a product key – take note of that – then cancel out

(thanks to tip from here – note that at this point a Download Windows icon is on the desktop and this may download files and give you the option to copy to USB – I just chose option in point #1 above – so let me know if this works as well)

3. Download and run the Windows 7 USB/DVD download tool from the Microsoft Store

(found in Programs menu)

4. Select ISO file from step 1

5. Select USB drive

6. Insert into machine to upgrade (in my case a Windows 8 Developer Preview; yes you can upgrade that) and run Setup

-Krip