Windows 7 Release Candidate 1 now available for public download

As expected, Windows 7 Release Candidate 1 has been made available to the public. What that means is anyone who may be interested is able to download, install and run Windows 7 and this version will not expire until June 1, 2010. That means you will get to use and run Windows free for a little over a year. A few things to keep in mind; while this version will not officially expire until June 1, 2010, Microsoft has added an annoyance that will begin as of March 1, 2010. According to the notes from Microsoft;

“Starting on March 1, 2010, your PC will begin shutting down every two hours. Windows will notify you two weeks before the bi-hourly shutdowns start.”

In other words, if you decide to install and run Windows 7 you may want to be prepared to install something else come March 1, 2010. Otherwise, it is free to use and enjoy, err I mean test. Also, keep in mind that when this trial period is over, you will have to reinstall another operating system (even another Windows 7) because you will not be able to upgrade past the RC.

Finally, you don’t have to worry about not getting to that download first thing because unlike the previous beta that was limited and lots of people missed out on, this RC 1 version will be available for download through July 2009 and Microsoft will not be “limiting the number of product keys.”

Sounds good, my install has already begun and will be hopefully be installed on my Eee PC a little later today. Go, get your download, why are you still reading this?

Download [Windows 7]