On May 5th, 2009, Microsoft made publicly available the first RC, build 7100, of Windows 7. This RC is available in 5 languages and will expire on June 1st, 2010, with bi-hourly shutdowns starting March 1st, 2010.
I downloaded the RC1 from the Windows 7 RC1 Download page. The only pre-reqs are a Windows Live account, which you can register for free. Be prepared for a large transfer; I started mine in the early evening, and let it run at night. (+2GB) I then ripped the .iso to DVD the following morning.
I chose a DELL Latitude D630 to conduct my testing on. I installed with no issues. The installer was very intuitive. Activation can occur immediately after the OS is loaded, or you can hold off, but only for 3 days.
First Impressions

  • I really like the interface, it is streamlined and intuitive. I love the glass interface, the bars are semi-translucent and allow the below windows/wallpaper to show through.
  • The Libraries is a very nice touch, and helps organize files in a more logical manner. (In Win XP your media files, pictures and music and such were located inside My Documents, now are organized in Libraries.)
  • Wireless support is good, and easy to setup. The wizard had no problem locating my Wireless Access Point, and after authenticated, connected without issue.
  • IE 8 responds well, and is a refreshing change from IE 6 and earlier.
  • Seeming gone is the invasive UAC(User Access Control). I know its still there somewhere, but they have toned down the annoyingness of the previous version.
  • Action Center is pretty cool. It allows you to review any/all recent issues your computer is experiencing. It allows you to review and correct any of them in one space.
  • The clock now allows you to monitor more then 1 time zone.