Important Reminder - Windows 7 Release Candidate will Expire Soon

I just wanted to give you a heads-up that on 15 February 2010, anyone still running the Microsoft Windows 7 Release Candidate (RC) will receive a notification reminding them that starting 1 March 2010, their PC will begin experiencing bi-hourly shutdowns.

As test software, Windows 7 Release Candidate had a limited life and has now reached its scheduled expiry date.  The bi-hourly shutdowns will continue for three months through to 1 June 2010, at which time a non-genuine experience will be triggered  that removes the PC’s wallpaper and displays “This copy of Windows is not genuine” in the lower right corner above the taskbar. From this time PCs running the RC version will also no longer be able to obtain optional updates or downloads that require genuine Windows validation.

It is important to note that during these shutdowns, work will not be saved so to avoid any data loss we strongly suggest making plans to move to a released version of Windows 7 before the automatic shutdowns start.

Below is some information on how you can make a seamless transition across to a full version of Windows 7:

How do I move to a released version of Windows 7?

To do this you’ll need to do a custom (clean) install to replace the installation of the Windows 7 RC. I suggest the install, reinstall, uninstall Windows page on Windows.com which covers all kinds of installation scenarios.

How do I install Windows 7 on an existing XP PC?

If you’re an enthusiast, ready to move across to a full version of Windows 7, I highly suggest this video tutorial (with printable instructions as well) Upgrading from Windows XP to Windows 7 – Help and How To.

If you’re an IT Pro, I suggest visiting the Springboard Series on TechNet which provides the latest tools, whitepapers, walkthroughs and tips and tricks to help you with your Windows 7 Deployment. On the Springboard Series on TechNet, you’ll find resources such as Deploying Windows 7 from A to Z and Installing Windows 7 on an Existing XP PC. You can visit the Window 7 TechNet Forum for more information as well!

We hope you have enjoyed testing the product – we really valued your feedback, thank you!

For more information on the expiration of the Windows 7 Release Candidate, you can visit Microsoft support.

Cheers,

Jeff Putt

Windows Consumer Lead, Microsoft Australia