Windows 7 RC -- Get it while it's hot

By: JP Smith | Published: August 18, 2009

Categories: Software, Microsoft

You bascially have one more day to get your hands on the free Windows 7 Release Candidate before your window of opportunity closes (no pun intended). To do so, you need to go to the download site for the release candidate. You'll be able to register there and get a product key.  If you want to take advantage of this, the most important part is to get the download.  According to Microsoft, you can always request another key later.

Near the bottom of the page, there is a download option for 32-bit or 64-bit systems.  If you don't know which you are, you might want to reconsider doing this at all.  Just kidding but, you'll need to know this to get the most out of your performance, particularly because 64-bit machines can take advantage of configurations with > 4GB of RAM.  Microsoft offers help on how to determine this by going here. Once you know which you have, select the drop-down for the language you would prefer and click go.

Didn't get the download right away, huh?  You'll need a Windows Live ID, Hotmail account or a MSN Messenger account.  If you don't have one, just go here to set up an account.

Once you are registered, you should now be able to log in and access your download.  You should see a screen like this:

Now, you should have your Product Key and Installation Instructions available.  You will need to download your disk image by clicking the "Download Now" button.  You have to burn this image (.iso) to a DVD, boot up from this DVD and install using the instructions above.  Also, make sure to back up any needed files, even if you are wanting to dual-boot this with XP, Vista or Linux, just in case you experience issues.

If successful, you'll be able to take Windows 7 for a spin, free of charge and use it until June 2010.

Good luck and hurry up.  Time's running out.