Microsoft has announced an extension of the Windows 7 Enterprise 90-day free trial, providing IT professionals with an additional opportunity to evaluate the operating system before its official release. This extension aims to assist businesses in assessing Windows 7's compatibility and performance within their existing IT infrastructures.

Background and Context

Initially, Microsoft offered the Windows 7 Enterprise 90-day trial to IT professionals lacking access through Software Assurance Volume Licensing, MSDN, or TechNet subscriptions. This trial was designed to allow organizations to test the final version of Windows 7 Enterprise, ensuring it met their standards for deployment. The trial was available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Japanese, and supported both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures. (neowin.net)

Details of the Trial Extension

The extended evaluation period offers businesses a chance to test Windows 7 Enterprise to determine if it meets their standards as the next major upgrade. This evaluation period is for IT professionals who do not have access to Windows 7 RTM through:

  • Software Assurance Volume License agreement
  • MSDN and TechNet subscriptions
  • Software Assurance agreement allowing the download of Windows 7 RTM via the Volume Licensing Download Center

Companies that do not have access to the above means will be able to download Windows 7 Enterprise before the retail release date on October 22, 2009. After the 90-day evaluation period, companies will need to purchase Windows 7 and perform a clean install, including drivers and applications. (neowin.net)

Implications and Impact

The extension of the Windows 7 Enterprise 90-day free trial provides IT professionals and businesses with additional time to evaluate the operating system's compatibility and performance within their existing IT infrastructures. This extended evaluation period is particularly beneficial for organizations that do not have access to Windows 7 RTM through Software Assurance Volume Licensing, MSDN, or TechNet subscriptions. By offering this extended trial, Microsoft aims to facilitate a smoother transition for businesses considering upgrading to Windows 7 Enterprise.

Technical Details

  • Activation: Activation of Windows 7 Enterprise 90-Day Trial is required within 10 days after installation; otherwise, the product will shut down every hour.
  • Trial Period: The trial is valid for 90 days after installation.
  • Post-Trial: After the 90-day trial expires, if you wish to continue using Windows 7 Enterprise, you will be required to purchase and perform a clean installation of Windows 7, including drivers and applications.
  • Availability: The download is available through March 31, 2010, while supplies last. (techcommunity.microsoft.com)

Conclusion

The extension of the Windows 7 Enterprise 90-day free trial offers IT professionals and businesses an invaluable opportunity to thoroughly assess the operating system's capabilities and compatibility within their environments. This initiative underscores Microsoft's commitment to ensuring a seamless transition for organizations considering the adoption of Windows 7 Enterprise.

Reference Links

Note: The information provided is based on historical data from 2009 and may not reflect current availability or support for Windows 7 Enterprise.