Due to very heavy traffic we’re seeing as a result of interest in the Windows 7 Beta, we are adding some additional infrastructure support to the Microsoft.com properties before we post the public beta. We want to ensure customers have the best possible experience when downloading the beta, and I’ll be posting here again soon once the beta goes live. Stay tuned! We are excited that you are excited!

http://windowsteamblog.com/blogs/win...ilability.aspx

John beat you by seconds! Update on Windows 7 Beta Availability

Story on Computerworld.com now:

January 9, 2009 (Computerworld) Microsoft Corp. postponed the roll-out of the Windows 7 beta today, citing "very heavy traffic" on its Web site.
The company did not offer a new schedule for delivering the beta of its newest operating system.
"Due to very heavy traffic we're seeing as a result of interest in the Windows 7 Beta, we are adding some additional infrastructure support to Microsoft.com properties before we post the public Beta today," a spokeswoman said in an instant message reply to earlier questions about the Microsoft.com's performance. "We want to ensure customers have the best possible experience when downloading the Beta."

More:
Microsoft postpones Windows 7 public beta

big surprise that the MS server and network couldn't handle the traffic! I could have told 'em that several days ago. I can hear the chatter in the corridors of the marketing department...

I was downloading the 32bit version from these links when it stopped at 44% and now it won't budge any more.... damn