Microsoft Offers Free Windows 8 RTM

Two weeks ago Microsoft announced that Windows 8 has reached Release to Manufacture milestone. As promised, Microsoft released the finale version to MSDN and TechNet subscribers. However, 90-day evaluation copy of Windows 8 RTM is also available for everyone to download.

Unlike the versions distributed via TechNet and MSDN to paying subscribers, the evaluation expires after 90 days of use. At that time, Windows 8 blackens the desktop background, displays a persistent notice that the OS is not genuine. Then, Windows 8 shuts down the PC every hour without giving the user a chance to save works in progress. When the evaluation period expires, users will have to replace it with a purchased copy or another operating system, and reinstall all applications, other software and files.