It’s Time to Upgrade from the Windows 7 Release Candidate

While most people who tested Windows 7 have now moved to the final version, some are still running the Release Candidate. If you haven't moved yet, it’s time to replace the RC.

Starting on March 1, 2010 PCs with Windows 7 RC will begin shutting down every two hours. Work will not be saved during the shutdown.

The Windows 7 RC will fully expire on June 1, 2010. PCs running the Windows 7 RC will continue shutting down every two hours and files won’t be saved during shutdown. In addition, the wallpaper will change to a solid black background with a persistent message on the desktop. You’ll also get periodic notifications that Windows isn’t genuine. That means the PC may no longer be able to obtain optional updates or downloads requiring genuine Windows validation.

To avoid interruption, please reinstall a prior version of Windows or move to Windows 7. In either case, you’ll need to do a custom (clean) install to replace the RC. As with any clean installation, you’ll need to back up your data then reinstall your applications and restore the data. For more details about replacing the RC, see the Knowledge Base article KB 971767. For more information, visit the Window 7 Forum.

Calls to Action:

•  Customers without a VL agreement should prepare to install the retail release version.
•  Existing TechNet Plus subscribers, download Windows 7 here.

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