We''''re excited to announce the availability of Windows 7 Release Candidate (RC), a prerelease version of the next-generation operating system from Microsoft. Thanks to everyone who participated in the Beta testing period; your feedback was invaluable in helping the Microsoft engineering team make Windows 7 the best Microsoft operating system to date.

Test-drive Windows 7 RC today. Then show your colleagues and customers how Windows 7 can improve management, security, reliability, and performance.

Partners: If you have a subscription to MSDN or TechNet, you can download Windows 7 RC now. Otherwise, you can download Windows 7 RC starting May 5, 2009.

Participate in the Windows 7 Forum: Share your experiences and learn what other partners and IT professionals are saying about Windows 7.

Click "Read More..." below to see the Path to Windows 7 RC and a couple of the added features.

If you’re running Windows 7 Beta or the Windows XP operating system, you’ll need to back up data and perform a clean installation of Windows 7 RC. After installing, reinstall applications and restore your files. If you’re running the Windows Vista operating system, you can upgrade to Windows 7 RC. Learn more about installing the Windows 7 operating system. Shutdown Schedule for Windows 7 Beta and Windows 7 RC

To avoid interruption, it’s recommended that you and your customers rebuild test machines by using a valid Windows operating system before Windows 7 Beta and Windows 7 RC expire. Windows will automatically notify you that the expiration process is about to begin. Two weeks later, your PC will shut down every two hours. For Windows 7 Beta, the bihourly shutdowns will begin July 1, 2009. The software will expire August 1, 2009. For Windows 7 RC, the bihourly shutdowns will begin March 1, 2010. The software will expire June 1, 2010.

What’s New with Windows 7 RC:

Windows XP Mode Beta

Help your small-business customers leverage their existing investments in Windows XP applications as they make the move to Windows 7. Windows XP Mode enables Windows 7 Professional customers to run many Windows XP productivity applications. You can optimize productivity by launching Windows XP applications from the Windows 7 desktop through Windows Virtual PC.Note: Windows XP Mode isn’t included as part of the Windows 7 RC download. Install the Windows XP Mode Beta.

Remote Media Streaming