How to install Windows 8 image file on a Virtual Machine?

Hi all I am new to the forum looking for some help on the installation of Parallels. I have had Parallels running on my machine before but am having to reinstall everything today. I have downloaded my windows 8 from the Microsoft Store that shows up as an exe file on my mac. But when I try to create a new virtual machine, the file does not work. How can i troubleshoot this problem. Thanks!!
Charlie

 

Hi Charlie,
If you download Windows 8 or 8.1 from Microsoft store you will receive a .exe file, Windows 8/8.1 installation file with an '.exe' extension can only be used to upgrade an existing Windows Virtual Machine. As you are performing a new Windows install, to create a new Windows Virtual Machine, the .exe installation file will not work.
Please follow the steps suggested at http://kb.parallels.com/121009 to install Windows 8/8.1 with an .exe file.