Windows 7 Beta Download
Download the Windows 7 Beta
New to beta testing? Here's what you need to know:
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You'll need some technical skills, like knowing how to:
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Burn an ISO file to make an install DVD (A good example of what we mean by “technical”)
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Install Windows (of course)
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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.)
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Set up a network
It can be glitchy—so don't use a PC you need every day.
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Minimum recommended specs call for:
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1 GHz 32-bit or 64-bit processor
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1 GB of system memory
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16 GB of available disk space
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Support for DirectX 9 graphics with 128 MB memory (to enable the Aero theme)
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DVD-R/W Drive
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Internet access (to download the Beta and get updates)
And yes, like anything tech-related, these specs could change.
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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.
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You'll need a system recovery disk (and know how to use it).
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You're [almost] flying solo: you'll need to troubleshoot problems yourself and call on other Beta testers for their know-how.
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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.
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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.)
To learn more about the Windows 7 Beta, see Frequently Asked Questions.
Keep up with the news
The best way to keep up with what's happening is to follow the team blog. And, you can get non-technical news, tips, and offers in the monthly Exploring Windows newsletter.
Get the download
The 32-bit version of Windows 7 Beta is available in five languages: English, German, Japanese, Hindi, and Arabic. The 64-bit version is available in English, German, Japanese, and Arabic. Windows 7 Beta is available for a limited time, to the first 2.5 million people who download the software. Just choose the version that fits the system you'll be using for the test, pick your language and click go to register for and download the Beta.
Downloading the Windows 7 Beta could take a few hours. The exact time will depend on your provider, bandwidth and traffic. The good news is that once you start the download, you won't have to answer any more questions – you can walk away while it finishes. If it gets interrupted, it'll restart where it left off. See this FAQ for details.
Download 32-bit version
Download 64-bit version
Important recommendation: As you know, the point of beta testing is to find things we need to fix. As you help us uncover issues, we'll post fixes on Windows Update. So we recommend you keep your PC set to automatically check for updates through Windows Update. Please also stay current with the Release Notes, which are regularly updated with new notices and information.
To kick-off this process, before installing the Beta, please read the Release Notes. In particular, review the MP3 files and Windows Media Center notes and install the related updates before using the Beta.
Information about Windows 7 is preliminary and subject to 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. The features and functionality you find in the Beta product may not appear in the final version of Windows 7.
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