Tartan Tech: Microsoft Scotland Insight

Many of the Scottish Partners have already downloaded the Beta for Windows 7, and we are now pleased to announce the availability of Windows 7 Release Candidate (RC), a pre-release version of the next generation operating system from Microsoft. This release will be available to the public on 5 May 2009, but if you are an MSDN or TechNet subscriber you can download it today!

In addition to navigation, taskbar and security enhancements, Windows 7 RC includes:
Windows XP Mode
Windows XP Mode enables Windows 7 Professional users to seamlessly run many Windows XP applications in Windows 7. This feature is designed to help businesses that are still using older Windows XP applications migrate easily to Windows 7. Note: Windows XP Mode is a separate download in addition to Windows 7 RC. Install the Windows XP Mode Beta.
Remote Media Streaming
Remote Media Streaming enables you to securely access your home-based digital media libraries via the Internet from another Windows 7 PC outside the home.

Window 7 Beta and RC Expiration periods
You must rebuild your test machine with a valid version of your previous Windows operating system before the Windows 7 Beta and RC software expires. Windows will notify you that the expiration date is approaching. Two weeks after the expiration date, your PC will shut down every two hours.

The Beta will expire 1 August 2009 with two-hourly shutdowns beginning 1 July 2009. The Windows RC will expire 1 June 2010 with two-hourly shutdowns beginning 1 March 2010.
In both cases, you will need to rebuild your test PC to install a new operating system and reinstall all your programmes and data.