Hyper-V RC Release Download Links

Today, the last of the download links for the Microsoft Hyper-V Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2008 R2 RC (Release Candidate) release, Windows 7 client and the Remote Server Administration Tools (RSAT) for Windows 7 RC have gone live.

Windows Server 2008 RC Download

If you have an MSDN or Technet subscription, the download has already been live for a few days.

msdn download

As of today, you can also download directly. Follow this link and choose the "Download the RC now!" link at the top right of the page. 

Microsoft Hyper-V Server 2008 RC Download

This is the standalone virtualization solution using the same Hyper-V technology present in Windows Server 2008 R2. It can be downloaded here.

Windows 7 RC Download

Follow this link to the TechNet Evaluation Center.

RSAT RC Download for Windows 7

The RSAT tools are packaged in KB958830 which you can obtain by following this link. Make sure you download the right architecture for your needs. Note that these require Windows 7 Client build 7100 to install successfully and do not install on Windows Vista.

rsat rc install

Once you have installed the update, to enable Hyper-V Manager, in the Control Panel, open Programs and Features. From here, choose "Turn Windows features on or off" and navigate down through Remote Server Administration Tools/Role Administration Tools and ensure Hyper-V Tools is selected.

rsat rc turn on

Note that if you have a full installation of Windows Server 2008 RC, the Hyper-V role management tools are available without enabling the Hyper-V role itself.

Cheers,
John.