Windows 7 builds and more [for Noobs]

[AreoX]

Okay, so like some people I am a conplete Noob when it comes to Windows Seven. I have had it for less than a week, so it is still new to me. I love it a thousand times more than I ever did XP (I didn't swich to vista, so im comparing it to xp). Anyways, I have noticed that there are higher builds then the original 7000. Since I am new here I would like to ask the community some questions. Hopefully newcommers such as myself can read this and get some help themselves.

1.) How do I go about obtaining higher builds of Seven?
I am using 7000. I noticed most people have either 7068 or 7077. Are these ONLY leaked and can be obtained from torrents, or is there an update from MS?

2.) How do I install higher builds?
Once I get a higher build, will I have to completely re-image my PC? Or does it simply update my current version of Seven.

3.) What will happen when my time runs out?
Right now, windows says it will expire on 7/1/2009 at 5:00pm. If I update to a higher build, will it prolong this date? And if not, what happens when it expires? Will I simply not be able to use it? I am booting seven as my MAIN OS.

4.) Since I have the Beta, will I still have to pay for Seven when it comes out?

 

[weh]

1.) How do I go about obtaining higher builds of Seven?

Microsoft has only released 7000 to the public. All newer builds floating around are the result of leaks having been obtained from someone in the loop or from torrents and file repository sites like RapidShare and MegaUpload. (The one you want is 7077 with 7068 as a 2nd choice -- however, the official public release candidate is due in about 2-3 weeks.)

2.) How do I install higher builds?

You are welcome to try installing over 7000; however, a clean install is highly recommended.

3.) What will happen when my time runs out?

Most of the newer builds appear to be good for about a year. There are threads on this site discussing the time bomb and its probabble effects. The most likely scenario is limited functionality and a nast message saying for you to get with the program because your license has expired.

4.) Since I have the Beta, will I still have to pay for Seven when it comes out?

Microsoft isn't called M$ for nothing -- of course you'll have to pay. As will we all.

 

[AreoX]

Thanks a lot! really fast reply.

 

[johngalt]

I'd add that as long as M$ is deciding the price, you'll have to pay - but I think there may be a bit of a surprise in the works in terms of the actual costs when it finally goes RTM....