To install Windows 8, you typically start by booting your computer from the installation media, such as a DVD or BD disc.
## Starting the Windows 8 Installation from Disc
The initial step involves preparing your computer to boot from the installation disc containing the Windows 8 setup files.
Here's how to begin:
1. **Prepare the Disc:** Insert the Windows 8 Installation Disc into the internal or external DVD or BD reading device connected to your computer.
2. **Start Your Computer:** Turn on or restart your computer.
3. **Access the Boot Menu:** During the initial boot-up screen (often showing the manufacturer's logo), quickly press the `F12` key on your keyboard. This key is commonly used to access the **Boot Menu**, although the key might vary depending on your computer's manufacturer (other common keys include `Esc`, `F2`, `F10`, `Del`). Watch the screen carefully for prompts like "Press F12 for Boot Menu" or similar.
4. **Select Boot Device:** Once you have successfully entered the Boot Menu, you will see a list of available boot devices (like your hard drive, USB drives, network boot options, and optical drives). Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate and choose the DVD or BD reading device where you inserted the installation disc.
5. **Begin Installation:** Press `Enter` to boot from the selected device. The computer will now start loading the Windows 8 installation files from the disc. You might see a message like "Press any key to boot from CD or DVD..." – if you see this, press any key promptly to continue.
### Navigating the Boot Menu
The Boot Menu allows you to temporarily change the device your computer starts from without changing the permanent boot order in the BIOS/UEFI settings.
Here’s a simple representation of selecting the boot device:
| Boot Menu Option | Description | Action |
| :--------------------- | :------------------------------------------- | :----------- |
| Hard Drive (HDD/SSD) | Your primary storage device | Don't Select |
| USB Storage Device | Connected USB drives | Don't Select |
| Network Boot | Starting over a network | Don't Select |
| **DVD/BD Drive** | **Optical drive with your Windows 8 disc** | **SELECT** |
* *Note:* The exact names for devices in the Boot Menu may vary. Look for options like "CD-ROM Drive", "DVD Drive", "BD-ROM", or the specific model name of your optical drive.
Once the setup files load, you will be guided through the rest of the Windows 8 installation process, which typically involves selecting language and regional settings, entering your product key, accepting license terms, choosing the installation type (Upgrade or Custom), selecting the drive/partition for installation, and setting up your user account.
Following these initial steps ensures your computer starts the Windows 8 setup program from the installation disc.
