The logistics: Windows 7 RC public download to last through July

If you aren't an MSDN or TechNet subscriber, but still want to get your hands on the Windows 7 Release Candidate (RC), Tuesday May 5 is the day downloads begin.

But there's no need to rush. (And doing so might lead to server-overload frustrations. Again.) Microsoft is planning to allow RC downloads to continue through July, company officials are confirming.

Here's what's known so far about Microsoft's plan to make the one and only public Windows 7 RC available. (My questions are in bold; answers delivered via a corporate spokesperson follow.)

What time will the RC be available to the public? We do not have a specific time to share at this time. Update: The Windows 7 RC download servers went live late on May 4. Best URL for download? www.windows.com/windows7 How long will the RC be available for download? It will be available through July How long until the RC expires? Summer of 2010, specifically June 1, 2010 Will the XP Mode/Windows Virtual PC code also be available to anyone as a public beta tomorrow? Yes, XP Mode is available as part of the CPP (Customer Preview Program) on May 5, as well. Best URL for XP Mode public download? http://www.microsoft.com/DOWNLOADS/en/default.aspx

So what's next after the RC? Under prior Windows regimes, there would be additional release candidates, going to smaller and smaller groups of testers, prior to RTM (release to manufacturing). With Windows 7, it's unclear whether even the inner circle of technical beta testers will see any more RC builds before Microsoft declares the product done.

There has been speculation that Friday, October 23 could be the date Windows 7 goes on sale, based on a comment from an Acer exec last week. While that date could be on the money, it strikes me as kind of odd, given that it is too late for back-to-school but too early for holiday sales.

I'm still thinking Windows 7 RTM will happen in Q3 and "launch" some time in November...especially given the Server team's reiterated statement from last week that Windows Server 2008 R2 "is slated to be released to manufacturing by the end of H2 CY09, and generally available in CY 2010."