Hog4PC and Windows 8.1

Through a bunch of research it seems my problem may be that my Windows 8.1 is an update and not a full install. I'll wait for my Windows 10 update to see if the problem persists. Hopefully I can avoid a full install. I have way to many programs and preferences to want to deal with a full day or two of rebuilding.

One thing I've learned for sure. The msicuu2.exe program recommended by High End completely screwed my registry up. Luckily I create a restore point everyday and was able to get back to normal with little issue. Save yourself a headache and do not use the msicuu2.exe uninstall program on an updated Windows 8.1 without making a restore point first.

Your problem is not a Windows problem, it's about Hog4 PC and the Windows firewall don't get along. You have to set some firewall rules by hand.
I have that same problem at the moment, setting up a new user on a 8,1 machine, my bad luck is I had it running but do not remember the exact rules to alter any more.
Same thing is on Windows 10, Hog4 PC also stops at the "Starting DP8..." line.

or turn off the firewall completely

I have run H4PC on Win7, 8.1 and 10 and I never have had to do more that press allow when the firewall message pops on screen. No need to turn off firewall.