Windows Server 2008 and Windows Vista SP1 Release candidates

Windows Server 2008, which is scheduled to release to manufacturing (RTM) by the Feb. 27 launch event in the United States, reached the RC1 milestone today and is available to customers for download at https://www.microsoft.com/ws08eval. With RC1, Microsoft is enhancing Group Policy with Group Policy Preferences, formerly known as PolicyMaker Standard Edition and Policy Share Manager. As the code approaches final signoff, RC1 is one of the last opportunities for customers and partners to evaluate it and provide feedback. So far, more than 1.8 million customers have obtained Windows Server 2008 evaluation code.

“We like that Microsoft designs its technologies with integration in mind,” said Ralph Valenzisi, director of technology for Norwalk Public Schools. “We’re excited about the new security and management features in Windows Server 2008 that can help us increase our productivity and provide more consistent, reliable service to both our staff and students.”

James also said that he had a mail overnight from the Microsoft Connect service saying that as registered user Vista SP1 Release candidate is now available for download for suitably registered customers. It doesn't seem to be on the TechNet site at the moment. In any event the news is out that we've reached that milestone.

The UK launch event will be announced. The global theme is "Heroes Happen Here" and I thought I would give you a sneak preview of a few of the little fellas you may seeing more of: