You can download a WIN8.1 DVD ISO. [URL] If you have 8.0 and not 8.1 you will need to use a generic key to install. You then Get the bios key and change to that.  The Generic Keys WILL NOT ACTIVATE Ever. Bios Keyed win8 requires 64 bit media and must be home or Pro depending on the Label. XHQ8N-C3MCJ-RQXB6-WCHYG-C9WKB (Win 8.1 Pro)  334NH-RXG76-64THK-C7CKG-D3VPT (Win 8.1 Home) Windows 8 keys are encrypted stored in the Bios installed at the factory.  There are no more COA Stickers due to piracy. (OEM System Builder Versions Do Still have COA Stickers) [IMAGE] Windows 8 now comes with a Genuine Microsoft Label there are NO MORE Certificate of Authenticity (COA) Labels. See the following examples of labels to look for. Color-Shifting Ink The color shift on the label is designed to change from one color to another when viewed from different angles, making it easy to determine if it is genuine. Windows 8: magenta to green Windows 8 Pro: blue to purple Windows RT: turquoise to purple I don't know if this shows the key or not. (Versions Higher than 8.3c do Show the Key) Version 8.4 supports Windows 8.1 However as you change versions by adding softpacks you should save the previous keys as they are removed and replaced with the PRO and MCE packs.  But windows will not clean install with an update pack so you need the original key in order to Install clean then do windows anytime upgrades back to PRO or MCE editions. www.belarc.com/free_download.html  
Recently bought an Inspiron 15 Series 3000, model is 3542. It comes with Windows 8.1 I want to be able to run Kubuntu 14.04 on the hard drive. It has no partitions. What do I need to do (apart from backup) to (a) wipe windows 8.1 , and (b) Install Kubuntu 14.04 I don't have any data on the hard drive, as I use Kubuntu on a desktop computer. Need to change eveything over to the Dell Laptop. I don't have the Windows 8 or 8.1 CD. It would be wise if I did have it. I was informed by Dell support that it is not for sale online, however I can call some number and purchase it that way. 
Kubuntu 14.04 on a Dell Inspiron 15 Series 3000, 3542