Note: After only two days of distribution Microsoft has pulled Release Candidate 2 from their servers claiming they only wanted a small number of testers getting their hands on that particular release. RC1 has remained as the only officially available release.

Getting ready for Windows Vista, available in early 2007, means choosing the edition that's right for you and ensuring that you have the right PC to enjoy the experiences you want.

Windows Vista Release Candidate 1 (RC1)---the final major pre-release of Windows Vista---is now available through the Customer Preview Program. Once you have installed Windows Vista RC1, be sure to visit the Resource Center to download the Windows Vista Product Guide and discover more information that will help you get up and running quickly.

* Evaluate Your Current PC
Run the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor RC to help get your PC ready for Windows Vista.
* System Requirements
We recommend that you consult the Windows Vista Capable and Premium Ready PC specifications for system requirement guidance on running the core experiences and advanced features of Windows Vista.
* Get Windows Vista RC1
Windows Vista RC1 is available as a download or on DVD. It's time for clarity---try it now!
* Windows Vista RC1 Resource Center
Once you have installed Windows Vista RC1, be sure to visit the Resource Center to download the Windows Vista Product Guide, find anti-virus software for RC1, and discover more information that will help you get up and running quickly.
* Use Online Help
Get up-to-date content to help you install and use Windows Vista RC1.