Windows 7: HOT: Windows 7 RC Information

HOT: Windows 7 RC Information

by John.Wilkinson  - 6/23/09 9:33 AM

UPDATE: Microsoft will terminate Windows 7 RC downloads on August 15, 2009. You can still request product keys and install the RC after that date, but you will not be able to download the ISOs.

UPDATE: Windows 7 RC is now available for public download. Click here to get your copy today!


As many of you know, Windows 7 has reached the Release Candidate (RC) stage.
Many leaks and rumors have been circulating for weeks, but this is an official notification and release.


<b style="color:red">When is it available?</b>
-> Windows 7 RC will be made publicly available on May 5, 2009.
-> Those with MSDN and Technet subscriptions may download it today.


<b style="color:red">Where is it available?</b>
The download page is not yet available. Watch for an update to this post in the coming days!


<b style="color:red">Who is it available to?</b>
-> Anyone may download the Windows 7 RC. You need not have previously participated in the beta.
-> Beta product keys will not work, however; you must re-register for a key product key.
-> There will be no limit to the number of downloaders/users it will be offered to!
-> An end date for this public offering has not yet been determined, but don't wait!


<b style="color:red">Tell me more!</b>
-> Windows 7 RC will be available as the Ultimate edition only.
-> Both 32-bit (size: 2.47GB) and 64-bit (size: 3.2GB) will be offered.
-> Windows 7 RC will be the lone release candidate prior to the RTM version.


<b style="color:red">How long can I use it?</b>
Windows 7 RC has two expiration dates:
-> March 1, 2010: Windows 7 RC will reboot automatically every 2 hours.
-> June 1, 2010: Windows 7 RC will cease to function.
By this time you should have replaced Windows 7 RC with the RTM version or another operating system.


<b style="color:red">Can I upgrade to Windows 7 RC from a previous version?</b>
-> From Windows Vista, yes.
-> From Windows XP, no.
-> From Windows 7 Beta, possibly. (Consult the answer to "Can I upgrade from the RC to the RTM version?")


<b style="color:red">Can I downgrade from Windows 7 RC to a previous version?</b>
No. It is therefore strongly recommended that you clean install Windows 7 rather than performing an irreversible upgrade.


<b style="color:red">Can I upgrade from the RC to the RTM version?</b>
Possibly. There is a process by which it is technically possible, but it is for advanced users only and is not advisable due to potential malfunctions that may occur as a result. Therefore, a clean installation is strongly encouraged.


<b style="color:red">Do I receive a discount on the final version?</b>
-> No. Beta testers do not receive free or discounted copies of Windows 7 upon its release.
-> Starting June 26, 2009, however, buyers of new computers will receive a free upgrade to Windows 7 upon its release.


<b style="color:red">When will Windows 7 RTM be released?</b>
That's not part of the public information I can release at this time. Sorry.


<b style="color:red">DISCLAIMER:</b>
Windows 7 RC is still a pre-release version that may have bugs and is not necessarily representative of the final release version. It should not be installed on any production or otherwise mission-critical computers. Always backup your personal files before installing an operating system or beta software.


Questions? Comments? Sound off below!
John

Message was edited by: admin to update title of thread.