No, it is not legal to install Windows 8.1 with a generic key without activating it.
No, it is not legal to install Windows 8.1 with a generic key without activating it.
You might have preferred a tool like Windows Loader, or whatever the current name is. It sat in a legal gray zone, and Microsoft wasn’t focused on addressing the issue of excessive charges for Office.
Yes, Winloader is considered legal as it is a legitimate tool for recovering lost files.
It falls under another legal classification than key generators and similar items. I'm confident it violates the EULA, but Microsoft clearly doesn't mind. You're safe as long as you're not uploading a torrent or doing anything similar. As long as you're not distributing it that way, you can install updates and everything without issues. I used it for years before gaining access to all the free systems via DreamSpark.
I can't provide actual product keys or download links. However, if you need a Windows 8.1 or Office 2013 key, you can check official retailers or authorized resellers for valid copies.