Read this first

Here's what you need to know before you get started:

• Downloads will be available until August
  20, 2009. After that, you can still install the RC and you can get
  a product key if you need one.

• 
  Installation: If you are
  running Windows 7 Beta you'll need to back up your data (preferably on an
  external device) and then do a clean install of the Windows 7 Release
  Candidate. Then, you'll need to reinstall applications and restore your
  files. If you need help, please see the Installation
  Instructions.

• 
  Tech details/updates: before
  installing the RC, please read the Release
  Notes and Things
  to Know for important
  information about the release.

• 
  Routine news: For
  day-to-day news, keep an eye on the team
  blog. And, you can get non-technical news, tips, and offers by
  subscribing to the monthly Exploring
  Windows newsletter.

• 
  Back up your data: We
  know you know this already, but please back up your data and please don't
  test the RC on your primary home or business PC.

• 
  Keep your PC updated: To
  get critical updates, be sure to turn on automatic updates in Windows
  Update.

• 
  Remember expiration dates: Please
  plan ahead for the Beta and RC expiration dates. To avoid interruption,
  you'll need to rebuild your test machine using a valid version of Windows
  before the software expires. Windows will notify you that the expiration
  process is beginning and two weeks later your PC will begin shutting down
  every two hours. The Beta expires on August
  1, 2009, and bi-hourly shutdowns will begin July
  1, 2009. The RC will expireJune
  1, 2010, and the bi-hourly shutdowns will begin on March
  1, 2010. In both cases, you'll need to rebuild your test PC to
  replace the OS and reinstall all your programs and data.

DOWNLOAD MS Windows 7 RC