How To Use Windows 7 Free Of Charge For 4 Months

If you were planning to download the release candidate of Windows 7, you're too late. But there are still ways to try the system for four times longer than the standard 30-day trial period.

Microsoft has, as scheduled, removed the release candidate of Windows 7 from its download sites. That edition, which had been available since May, marked the penultimate stage in the new operating system's development process. Those people who downloaded it will be able to continue to use the prenatal OS until March 2010, when it automatically and officially expires. (Source: pcworld.com)

If you want to get an official copy direct from Microsoft or through a retailer, you'll now have to wait until the system's release in October -- though in some markets you can order now and pay a discounted price.

Final Edition Already Available

It is possible however to get your hands on the final edition now, either by subscribing to Microsoft's Developer Network, TechNet or Subscriber services, or by copying the installation disc directly from a subscriber. (Source: zdnet.com)

Getting and installing the software in this way is not likely to get you into legal trouble. Why? Because Microsoft allows users to install Windows 7 without paying for it. The system will work for 30 days after which users are required to activate it, at which point they'll need to prove they have paid for it.

Triple Time Reset

However, a Microsoft tool included with Windows 7 allows users to reset this 30-day countdown up to three times, providing up to 120 days free use. The process simply involves running a command prompt in administrator mode, typing 'slmgr -rearm' and press enter, then restarting the machine. (Source: windowssecrets.com)

Full details of how to do this are available from the WindowsSecrets.com website.