Windows Vista Beta download
Yes, this is legitimate and officially sanctioned. Microsoft is releasing the beta version of Vista Ultimate for download. This page gives details on the download. It is also possible to request a dvd. (The download is a dvd iso – a bit over 3 GB). It will expire June 1, 2007 (I assume Vista will be out by then…) It should be able to upgrade an existing XP install or do a fresh install (PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS WITH YOUR MAIN DESKTOP WITHOUT SERIOUS BACKUP FIRST.) It will be unable to roll back to the previous OS (fresh wipe and install would be required.)
You will need a key to install the Beta, information here on getting a key to install. It appears you’ll need a live account to do that as well. Even though I don’t have the faintest expectation of running Vista on a PC, I am considering doing a test install. (I fully expect to stick with linux/*bsd for the foreseeable future on my desktops/servers.)
I guess one of the main curiosities I have is to get to see it first hand. It won’t be long before I’ll have to be supporting it, so the preview will certainly help. I just looked and they have had a surge of demand and are asking that you try again later at the download.
REMINDER – DO NOT USE THE BETA FOR A PRODUCTION (DAILY USE) SYSTEM. IT IS DESIGNED TO TEST THE OS.