It's good to know it will operate up to the point when I can buy the retail version.
At the moment I'm bouncing between Vista & W7 mainly to keep Vista updated.
Can't wait for RC so I can use it full time.
All my data is on seperate drives and using the library makes it easy to get at whatever I need from Vista users directory.
Anmor
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.

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