Go get it - http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/beta-download.aspx
You'll need some technical skills, like knowing how to:
Burn an ISO file to make an install DVD (A good example of what we mean by “technical”)
Install Windows (of course)
Backup and restore your PC (There's a chance of losing files, so it's a good idea to do a backup of anything you want to save.)
Set up a network
It can be glitchy—so don't use a PC you need every day.
Minimum recommended specs call for:
1 GHz 32-bit or 64-bit processor
1 GB of system memory
16 GB of available disk space
Support for DirectX 9 graphics with 128 MB memory (to enable the Aero theme)
DVD-R/W Drive
Internet access (to download the Beta and get updates)
And yes, like anything tech-related, these specs could change.
Some product features of Windows 7, such as the ability to watch and record live TV or navigation through the use of "touch," may require advanced or additional hardware.
You'll need a system recovery disk (and know how to use it).
You're [almost] flying solo: you'll need to troubleshoot problems yourself and call on other Beta testers for their know-how.
It's a two-way thing—Beta testing is about feedback so our developers can fix bugs and hear what appeals to the people who use our products daily. Please tell us what you think.
Watch the calendar. The Beta expires on August 1, 2009. To continue using your PC, please be prepared to reinstall a prior version of Windows or a subsequent release of Windows 7 before the expiration date. (See installation instructions.)
Here is a direct link method
http://www.neowin.net/news/main/09/01/09/windows-7-public-beta-released-remember-to-patch
The technet site to register for a key is completely unresponsive as it has been all morning. Are there any alternate links?
How do you get a registration key?
Because I used the direct download...
now if i dl it via the direct link... where do i get a legit serial
I've got the download but don't have the key - I'll second the question about an alternate key link!
where do we get the product activation key???? I don't know where the key is.
You don't need a key for 30 days, sometime by then things should clear up.
Thanks for streaming this like you are doing. Only got 1 question: Where do I get a serial number. I've been reading the Live Search QandA page and several posters have mentioned a SA.
but even then .... after everyone clears out where would we get it from, do you propose (legitly)?
This IS the 7000 build, right? Would just like to make sure from somebody that has already downloaded it.
Yes, it is the 7000 build according to the file.
Thanks, Steve. I know the file said 7000 on the download, just wanted to make sure. Heading over to Demonoid to rectify the key problem.
Only problem.
If after 30 days you are not one of the first 2 million downloaders, you won't get a key anyway.
So we need to get that key legit soon. I think 2 million slots will be taken by nightfall if not sooner.
Problem i try to download this and it seems to jsut cut out 1/2 way through has any1 else had this problem
Yes, the links are legal haha.