The debut to a select number of IT pros is months’ ahead of its Oct. 22 public debut, allowing a sufficient amount of time to find bugs.
Those who subscribe to Microsoft's TechNet program can download the operating system starting today, as can independent hardware and software vendors. Volume Licensing business customers with Software Assurance subscriptions can download Windows 7 starting Friday.
Gold or certified members of Microsoft's Partner Program get access to Windows 7 on Aug. 16, while Action Pack subscribers will be able to receive it on Aug. 23. Sept. 1 marks the day when Volume Licensing customers who do not have Software Assurance subscriptions can download the Release to Manufacturing, or final, version of Windows 7.
The full version of Windows 7 Home Premium is priced at $199, with an upgrade from Vista or XP costing $119.
The full version of Windows 7 Professional is $299, with upgrades going for $199. Windows 7 Ultimate is priced at $319, with the upgrade version at $219.